Read the case study entitled, History of the NCO 1700: ValleyForge. Pick two issues from the list below to discuss in the case studyanalysis. Write a 500 700 word analysis using the case study formatoutline. Include a minimum of one APA formatted reference and onein-text citation to support your post (use reference(s) outside theResearch and Case Studies Lesson). Include a title and reference pageformatted IAW APA 7th edition.
a) The lack of standardized drills and maneuvers.
b) The poor supply acquisition process.
c) The lack of policies/procedures that were in place.
d) The poor camp layout and sanitation plan.
e) Sickness and disease.
f) Low morale and desertion.
Case Study Format Outline:
Paragraph 1: Introduction, Key Problems, Thesis Statement
Paragraph 2: Background, (Set the scene/facts/main actors)
Paragraph 3: Alternatives (Outline some alternatives, why yourejected them, constraints/reasons, why alternatives are not possible atthis time)
Paragraph 4: Proposed Solutions (Proposed Course of Action(Solution) (one or two, may have sub components)
Paragraph 5: Recommendations (Determine and discuss specificstrategies for accomplishing the proposed solution. If applicable,recommend further action to resolve some of the issues. What should bedone and who should do it?)
Full Answer Section
Background:
Following a series of defeats in the summer and fall of 1777, General George Washington led the Continental Army to Valley Forge for the winter encampment. The army was poorly equipped, underfed, and ill-clothed. Many soldiers lacked basic necessities like shoes and blankets. These hardships were compounded by a lack of standardized drills and maneuvers, and a dysfunctional supply acquisition process.
Issue 1: Lack of Standardized Drills and Maneuvers
The Continental Army at Valley Forge was comprised of soldiers from various colonies, each with their own training methods and military traditions. This lack of standardization led to confusion and inefficiency on the battlefield. Soldiers were unfamiliar with each other's tactics, making coordinated maneuvers difficult. Prussian military officer Baron von Steuben recognized this shortcoming and addressed it during his time at Valley Forge. He introduced a standardized drill manual, "Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States" (Knopf, 1966). This manual established uniform drills and maneuvers, improving the army's overall cohesion and effectiveness.
Why Alternatives Were Rejected:
While some officers may have resisted adopting new training methods, the benefits of standardization were clear. The Continental Army was facing a well-trained British army, and a lack of coordinated maneuvers would have placed them at a significant disadvantage in future battles.
Proposed Solutions and Recommendations:
The implementation of von Steuben's drill manual was a critical step towards improving the Continental Army's combat readiness. However, further training was needed to ensure soldiers were thoroughly familiar with the new maneuvers. Washington could have established dedicated training periods during the winter to solidify these skills. Additionally, officers from different colonies could have participated in joint exercises to improve communication and collaboration between units. By investing in standardized training, the Continental Army could have emerged from Valley Forge with a more cohesive and effective fighting force.
Issue 2: Poor Supply Acquisition Process
The Continental Army's supply chain was plagued by inefficiency and corruption. Supplies often arrived late, if at all, and were frequently of poor quality. This resulted in widespread shortages of food, clothing, and medicine. The harsh winter conditions exacerbated these problems, leading to widespread sickness and disease.
Why Alternatives Were Rejected:
Improving the supply chain required a multifaceted approach. Measures to combat corruption within the procurement process would have been necessary, along with a more centralized and efficient distribution system. However, the Continental Congress, facing financial strain, may have been hesitant to allocate additional resources to improve the supply chain.
Proposed Solutions and Recommendations:
While a complete overhaul of the supply chain may not have been feasible, several steps could have been taken to alleviate the shortages. Washington could have appointed a dedicated officer to oversee the supply chain, ensuring efficient distribution of available resources. Additionally, exploring alternative sources for supplies, such as local farmers and merchants, could have helped to mitigate shortages. Furthermore, stricter penalties for corruption within the procurement process could have deterred dishonest practices and ensured resources were directed to those who needed them most.
Conclusion:
The winter encampment at Valley Forge was a crucible for the Continental Army. The lack of standardized drills and maneuvers, and the poor supply acquisition process significantly hampered the army's effectiveness. However, by implementing solutions like standardized training and a more efficient supply chain, the Continental Army could have emerged from Valley Forge in a much stronger position. The lessons learned from Valley Forge would serve the Continental Army well in the years to come, ultimately contributing to American victory in the Revolutionary War.
Sample Answer
Introduction, Key Problems, and Thesis Statement:
The winter encampment of the Continental Army at Valley Forge in 1777-1778 stands as a pivotal moment in the American Revolution. While often romanticized for its hardships, Valley Forge was a time of immense struggle for the Continental Army. This paper will analyze two critical issues that plagued the Continental Army at Valley Forge: the lack of standardized drills and maneuvers, and the poor supply acquisition process. These issues significantly hampered the army's effectiveness and contributed to the widespread sickness, disease, and low morale that characterized the winter. By addressing these problems, the Continental Army could have emerged from Valley Forge in a much stronger position.