The Battle of Bastogne was a part of a larger engagement between German and American forces. This military operation is now viewed as one of the landmark events in the career of George Patton whose leadership skills played an important role (Yeide, 2011, p. 363). This paper is aimed at discussing the actions of this military commander more closely.
In order to analyze George Patton’s activities during the Battle of Bastogne, one should mention that he was able to understand what kind of actions should be taken to stop the possible offensive of the German forces. Therefore, he was ready to relieve the besieged American troops (Zaloga 2011, p. 32). In particular, he could see that it would be necessary to mobilize three divisions and move them in direction to Bastogne. In this way, he could avoid the delay that could prove disastrous. He had the foresight to see predict the attack of the Wehrmacht and determine how it could be hindered (Zaloga 2011, p. 32). This is one of the main aspects that be identified.
Additionally, he was able to visualize and describe the possible course of the battle. For instance, he could predict that the course of this military operation could significantly be affected by weather conditions (Gitline, 2010, p. 91). Moreover, he was able to make reasonable prognosis about the tactics of German forces. Furthermore, this military commander succeeded in describing the necessary actions, especially the creation of the corridor through which it was possible to resupply and relieve the attacked American troops (Gitline, 2010, p. 91). On the whole, this step was vital for ensuring that the German forces could not regain their previous positions.
Yet, the most important aspect is the way in which George Patton directed the actions of other military commanders. It should be noted that he had provided a set of detailed instructions to other commanders before the relocation of three divisions was necessary (D’Este, 1995). Therefore, he could save a significant amount of time. This issue was critical for the success of the operation.
One should also pay attention to Patton’s leadership in the course of this battle. It should be noted that George Patton’s confidence influenced the many other officers who did everything possible to maintain his orders. This aspect is also important because many colleagues of George Patton did not believe that it was possible to provide assistance to the besieged troops as quickly as possible. This is one of the main points that should be considered. It was also important for the success
Finally, a mission commander is responsible for the evaluation of the military operation. George Patton believed that this battle was one of his major successes (D’Este, 1995). Nevertheless, historians do not know whether he carried out a detailed analysis of the engagement. This is one of the main limitations that can be identified. The problem is that even a successful operation can have some drawbacks, and they were not described or analyzed.
Overall, one can argue that George Patton was a maverick leader who could set very high standards for his subordinates. Nevertheless, he could also acknowledge their achievements. It is difficult to say that something went wrong in the course of the military operation. Numerous pitfalls were avoided, and in part, this result could be credited to George Patton.
Reference List
D’Este, C. (1995). Patton: a genius for war. Toronto: HarperCollins Canada.
Gitline, M. (2010). George S. Patton: World War II General & Military Innovator. Boston: ABDO.
Yeide, H. (2011). Fighting Patton: George S. Patton Jr. Through the Eyes of His Enemies. New York: Zenith Imprint.
Zaloga, S. (2011). George S. Patton. New York: Osprey Publishing.