Combat Search and Rescue

This thesis examines the history of command and control for combat search and rescue (CSAR) in a quest for proper doctrine. The thesis question is: Should CSAR command and control be reorganized? The thesis reviews the history of CSAR command and control from Indochina, Operation DESERT SHIELD/STORM, and Operation ALLIED FORCE. The thesis identifies lessons that should have been learned and incorporated in joint doctrine. Finally, the thesis provides recommendations to improve the success of joint CSAR command and control operations.