WrrH THE 2D MARINE DIVISION IN DESERT SHIELD AND DESERT STORM             77


echelons, for at lower levels it is necessary to close with the enemy. However,
maneuver warfare enables commanders at all levels to `fight smarter" than their
opponents. It was  this ability, that mental "celerity" among     the British
commanders noted by Falls, which was another factor which contributed so
greatly to the division's accomplishments. In a series of interviews recorded
shortly after the ceasefire, the division's regimental, brigade, and battalion
commanders   nearly all made similar comments;   they were able to     make
decisions and take advantage of tactical situations because they knew what their
own commanders expected of them. The concept of knowing the commander's
intent is nothing new. But rarely has it received so strong and universal an
endorsement as by the commanding officers of 2d Marine Division units. It
clearly assisted them in the quick accomplishment of their missions. The
combination of knowing the commander's intent and having his confidence to
carry it out created a strong weapon which they used well.
   Finally, it must be noted that the 2d Marine Division played a significant
role in the accomplishment of the overall strategic mission of freeing Kuwait
from its occupation by the army of Iraq. It was the swift movement of the
division through Kuwait, alongside the 1st Marine Division, which led General
Schwarzkopf to order the early advance of the coalition forces on the far left
flank. Everyone who served in the 2d Marine Division during Operation Desert
Storm can be justly proud of his or her role and efforts and contributions to the
final victory. It is always an honor to serve; but to assist in the liberation of a
nation from tyranny is a privilege accorded to few.


                                        Departmcnt of Defense Photo (uSMC) 0290 21 91
Captured small arms and munitions lie in an iraqi position in Kuwait.