Battalion Command: Dare to Lead

Command assignments are the most cherished part of an officer`s career. Yet, these seem to have become stepping stones for career progression rather than an assignment to be enjoyed and leave one`s legacy. Today officers assume the command of the units with inadequate regimental experience, reflected in number of untoward incidents in many units in the recent past. This book is the author’s perspective on unit command, based on his wide experience and his command philosophy driven by passion, commitment and fearlessness.

The book is laid out in eight chapters and gives a perspective on wide range of important issues that a commanding officer has to deal with in war and peace. The author emphasizes that the battalion command is all about leadership, and while the army order appoints one as commanding officer, no order can appoint anyone a leader. That is a tag that has to be earned through character, competence and leadership by personal example.

Since the foundation of military success rests on military values, the aspect of morals and ethics is adequately discussed. It emphasizes the point that the raison d’ etre for unit`s existence is to fight and win in war, thus all activities of the unit must be oriented towards that. The book crystal gazes into the command challenges in future in war and peace and its implications for a commanding officer.

The book highlights the immense responsibilities that a commanding officer shoulders towards his battalion, and therefore, the need for him to be fearless and selfless in command. The author believes that the single battle winning factor is the human quotient which needs to be nurtured through top quality leadership by the officers. Based on his experience, practical recommendations on meaningful training and preparation for combat have been discussed. The author has exclusively listed the caveats that he followed in battalion command that should be a Bible for any passionate commanding officer who sees the battalion command as a calling beyond himself.