Analysis Of Platoons Descent Into Madness In Iraq's Triangle Of Death By Jim Frederick

The book “Black Hearts One Platoons Descent into Madness in Iraq’s Triangle of Death” by Jim Frederick is a true story about four United States Soldiers from 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division who committed heinous actions while deployed to Iraq. The horrific acts including rape and murder committed by the soldiers of 1st platoon was a direct result of poor military leadership. Poor leadership will corrupt any military unit. It is important that we use military history to our advantage whether good or bad in order to mold future leaders. This book is an excellent reference to utilize when studying how to be an effective military leader. The following paragraphs will highlight why

Input from subordinates on the front line can be beneficial to mission success. One way communication eliminates the opportunity for valuable feedback or input. An example from the book Black Hearts when two-way communication was required but not implemented is during the battalion’s training at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC). During the first day of the battalion’s training simulation, 1st platoon made a large tactical error causing the JRTC’s “enemy force” to capture nine-teen soldiers. The battalion commander, Lt Col Kunk immediately ordered surveillance and reconnaissance on the enemy for the next twenty-four hours. Lt Col Kunk formulated a complete plan without any input from his Company Commanders. When the Company Commanders spoke up stating the importance of formulating a rescue plan and using available assets, their input was shot down. Lt Col Kunk did not consider alternate points of view, changes in his plans, or modifications to his opinions throughout the book. A leader must use two-way communication to draw ideas from subordinates and encourage discussion among team members. It is also important that communication is accurate and thorough when giving orders to your

When we communicate well and communicate early it gives our subordinates less of a challenge when faced with decision and action points. Communication ensures that members of a military unit understand what to do, when to do it, as well as why they are executing said task. Good communication skills assist in creating a better understanding of a leader which in return can inspire subordinates to follow the leader’s values. When done correctly it allows the unit to grow and achieve mission success. Captain Goodwin is a prime example of a leader who did not clearly communicate orders in a timely manner when reading the book “Black Hearts”. Captain Goodwin was a Company Commander that would pass missions to the platoon leaders last minute even though he knew of them days in advance. Missions were often delayed due to soldiers sleeping or being unavailable due to information being held by Captain Goodwin until last minute. Captain Goodwin was also vague when he gave orders. The soldiers had a hard time dealing with not knowing the purpose behind their assigned missions. Communicating well and communicating early will ensure that your subordinates are prepared and they fully understand your intent. When a subordinate fully understands your intent, it is easier to hold them accountable for their