Krulak, Victor H.: Tactics and Techniques of Insurgency and Counterinsurgency, 1962 Jun 4

This address delivered by Major General Victor H. Krulak, USMC, Special Assistant to the Director Joint Staff, Joint Chiefs of Staff for Counterinsurgency and Special Activities focuses on the tactics and techniques of insurgency and counterinsurgency, providing a comprehensive overview of the complexities and challenges faced in countering communist-inspired insurgencies worldwide.

Krulak discusses the nature of insurgency, describing it as a condition resulting from a revolt against a constituted government, primarily communist-inspired, supported, or exploited. He emphasizes the multifaceted nature of insurgency, noting that it is not solely a military problem but involves economic, political, and social dimensions. Krulak highlights the vulnerability of emerging societies to insurgencies, pointing out that the communists exploit these societies' transitional phases for subversive activities.

It outlines a two-fold problem faced by the United States and its allies: the failure to recognize the true nature of the insurgency threat and the inadequacy of organizational structures to counter it effectively. Krulak calls for a comprehensive approach involving all sources of national strength—diplomatic, economic, educational, propaganda, and military—to address the insurgency challenge.

Krulak provides examples from various countries, including Ecuador, Bolivia, Guatemala, and Venezuela, illustrating the diverse causes of insurgency, such as economic imbalance, ignorance, political instability, and military weaknesses. He stresses the importance of international support and encouragement for nations struggling with insurgency, underscoring the critical role of the "Country Team" concept, which brings together diplomatic, economic, educational, and military efforts in a coordinated response to insurgency.

The address also touches on the counterinsurgency efforts in Thailand and South Vietnam, showcasing tactics and techniques employed to win the "hearts and minds" of the local population and strengthen their resistance against communist insurgents. These efforts include infrastructure development, educational programs, police and military training, and propaganda initiatives to enlighten the population about the communist threat.

Krulak concludes that the battle against insurgency is primarily a battle of ideas, fought not with guns and bullets but through efforts to gain the support of the local population. He emphasizes that victory in counterinsurgency requires a synthesis of all elements of national power, organized effectively both at the local and national levels.

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