Forum: Author Hangout

I found some great information if anyone is into Civil War Facts.
https://transportation.army.mil/history/pdf/Peninsula_Campaign/Rodney%20Lackey%20Article_1.pdf

Amateurs focus on Tactics or strategy. Professionals study Logistics!

If you are interest in some relatively short and easy to understand books on Logistics, read:

SUPPLYING WAR (Logistics from Wallenstein to Patton) by Martin Van Creveld, Cambridge University Press

Good overview of logistics, albeit focused on conflicts in Western Europe. Chapters about Napoleon's 1812 Campaign to invade Russia, and Prussian logistics in the 1860's are relevant to ACW (American Civil War) logistics.

The Soldier's Load and the Mobility of a Nation by SLA Marshall published by the USMC Assc. Quantico, VA

While specifically about WWII, and the post war era, the book draws upon studies and exercises of the German Imperial Army c.1890 to 1910 that informed their WWI operations and logistics. It also draws upon studies of the Roman Republic and Empire, and the Napoleonic Wars.

I found this book useful as a young paratrooper in my teens, and throughout my military career, and for my writing too. NCOs need to be aware of logistics too, for Platoon Sergeants and above should be knowledgeable, and are responsible for logistics for their soldiers.

The book also covers the matter of the relationship between Fatigue and Fear. It is worth understanding for an informed writer.

In my stories I detail the Logistics in my notes that I don't publish. However, I document them, so that I know how they will effect my published story. Occasionally I will include some aspects of logistics, as they would be perceived by my characters.

For example in my story Aztlan Portal I am tracking how far and how fast the invaders can march, as well as their logistics. It rarely is portrayed on page, however, the timing of the story is determined by these factors.

My choice of Mexico, over numerous other locations, is because how I believed the Mexican government would hesitate to act, and the USA would be reluctant to act overtly. The invaders would require weeks, even months to build up sufficient strength to pose a significant threat.

I belief plenty of historical examples, as well as events in Ukraine, the Middle East, and elsewhere since I began writing my story justify the failure to act decisively Despite videos and other reports depicting Clear and Present Dangers!

Logistics also effect the Mexican police and Army, and even the US special operations. Logistics is not merely a matter of tonnages and distances. Administrative abilities, and bureaucracy, also have a significant effect upon logistics. The USA, as far back as the Union forces in the 1860's have massive advantages of production, distribution, and cash. But it was not merely the challenges of moving those assets where needed (often remote areas). Bureaucratic quagmires and the interests of coteries impeded efficient logistics.

In the story when several characters are choosing a location for their compound on a USAF base, it must be adjacent to a runway or apron, and cannot interfere with the bases routine operations. Ultimately, they decide on a location in walking distance to the BX (Base Exchange ~ similar to a Wal-Mart). Partially for morale reasons, it is also a matter of logistics. They are unlikely to have enough vehicles, and if they don't have a convenient source for clean socks, or whatever, then the Chain of Command will have to provide those things for their personnel.

During the ACW food, blankets, mail, etc. was provided by the Union Army; supplemented by suttlers who sold additional food, newspapers, sometimes alcohol, etc.

For the Mexican Army, failure to understand the scope of the threat, and a belief that they could depend upon MedEvac helicopters for "only a few serious casualties" results in soldiers dying who shouldn't have! Of course this has a negative effect upon morale, and a requirement to evacuate the wounded by vehicle; or else abandon them to a seemingly merciless enemy!

Logistics imposes significant limitations (and a logistical advantage might present opportunities) that might not be explicitly mentioned in your story, but should inform your plot and pacing. Lee and the ANV invaded Maryland and Pennsylvania not for Tactical reasons, but to protect the Shenandoah Valley (food production) by distracting the Union Army. Also to hopefully capture some supplies, and at least live off the land of the Yankees. Tactically it would have been better for the CSA to remain on the defensive, but logistical considerations compelled them to conduct a risky and ultimately ruinous offensive!