Brian M Downing and the world at war. Timely, thoughtful, and nonpartisan analysis of military matters. @BrianMDowning1.
Brian M Downing The view presented here in parts 1-3 is that the Russian army is flawed. Some 25% of its troops are poorly-trained and indifferently-motivated conscripts who do not fit well with dedicated regulars. Promotions from field grade to general staff are often based on political loyalties not professional Read More …
Brian M Downing Discipline is essential to armies. It can be achieved through able and perhaps even personable leaders, an unquestionably just cause, pay incentives, or corporal punishment. Most armies have all four. The Russian army’s leaders are of dubious quality, pay is low, and there hasn’t been a just Read More …
Brian M Downing But we in it shall be remembered – We few, we happy few, we band of brothers. – William Shakespeare, Henry V We’re stuck over here God knows how long, just waiting and sweating it out, and finding out things about yourself that, by God, it don’t pay Read More …