S.L. Nelson
Attrition changed the dynamics of the battlefield in Ukraine. Attrition thinned the front line and reduced the available reserve to close critical gaps in the defensive lines or maintain momentum to achieve the goals of an offensive, as demonstrated in the actions of both the Russian and Ukrainian formations. More importantly, attrition removes tacit knowledge from the battlefield. War memoirs and after-action reports from numerous conflicts unanimously suggest that the most significant causalities are among replacement soldiers.
How can modern armies keep their experience where it is needed?
During operations on Okinawa in 1945, planners learned from the mistakes of past operations. Replacement soldiers increased the casualty bill during the operation, and evacuating soldiers tied up the logistics routes and hubs. Since experience in combat demands a blood price, keeping experienced soldiers engaged with the enemy is critical. Proactively treating mental health during combat can promote keeping experienced soldiers in the fight.
Casualties enjoyed immediate evacuation in early battles in the Central Pacific were immediately evacuated and often lost to their units for long periods. During the operation on Okinawa, two measures helped to stem this tide. First, planners recognized the need for neuropsychiatric treatment and facilities to extend forward along with the Army's operations. For this purpose, divisions and corps set up rest and treatment areas. As a further measure, the Tenth Army dedicated a whole field hospital to neuropsychiatric cases.[i]
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