Department of the Army (DA) Civilians in Support of Military Operations: How Should Current Policies Change to Better Support Them on Today's Battlefield

摘要

Civilians have participated in military operations since the Revolutionary War. They will continue to serve in essential noncombatant positions that are critical to success on the battlefield. Prior to Operation Desert Shield/Storm policies and procedures that governed civilian personnel during combat operations were ambivalent or nonexistent. Policies and procedures codified in directives and regulations following Desert Shield/Storm were a vast improvement over previous documents. Although current policies and procedures provide clarity and direction issues exist with compensation Emergency-Essential (E-E) position designation and accountability. Given that the Army is operating in an asymmetric environment policies and procedures that govern E-E civilians must change to meet the new environment. This changed environment also brings about a new manner in which we select and retain government civilians serving in E-E positions. This research paper will assess the documents that govern E-E civilians serving on today's battlefield and make recommendations for changes in the areas of compensation Emergency-Essential (E- E) position designation and accountability.