[XJarhead]

I was teaching tactics to Marine Lt.'s in the mid-late 80's, and the OODA loop was just becoming big. We drilled in how important it was to give subordinates flexibility, to communicate effectively, and to make fast decisions. That's how you screw up the other guy's loop.

One huge advantage we have is our decentralizaed decisionmaking. When commanders have latitude to act as they see fit without always getting approval first, they short-circuit the OODA loop and gain a tremendous advantage. Most countries simply can't do that because their troops aren't sufficiently trained, or they lack a culture of initiative at the lower level. That gives us a huge tactical advantage against most potential foes.

[eBelasco]

It gives you an advantage in life and business in general. How many times are people frustrated at work because they are restricted in taking the initiative on something, either because they are not skilled enough to, or the company won't allow it?

[Cuttnhorse]

See my post #85...you are exactly correct.

[mdmathis6]

The Romans used a technique in battle called Maniples which allowed for fast reconfiguration of battle lines for devestating effect.

It would appear that that our armed services use a MENTAL version of the same technique, this decentralisation of decision making which allows for tremendous flexibility. If the mission is clear, if the officers are dead, even the privates can finish the job!

It reminds me of the verse in Proverbs: The locusts have no king, yet they march out in bands, laying waste....
(the implication being that their "mission" is intrinsic to their natures!)