If I may intrude, I think you two are
both correct and whether the enemy, the terrain or a mission not really including terrain or enemy('destroy the Bridge at MV 123456,' or like this LINK) should be the focus is really determined by the type of warfare in which one's engaged. This:
Quote:
Until we figure out how to get the population to tell us where the enemy is we can hold ground all we want but we will not win.
makes / made sense in Iraq or Afghanistan, it would've made less sense in Viet Nam and still less in Korea or WW II.
'Establish a blocking position from CY 235679 to CY 281723' and 'On order, TF 3-64 AR conducts a delaying action from RL 351717 to RL 407664...' are typical MCO missions and such broad mission orders must be employed when the disposition and strength of the enemy is uncertain -- a condition that happens quite often. Remember that in MCO, the population tends to displace to avoid being caught between the elephant herds trampling the undergrowth. 'Conduct a parachute operation to seize and hold the Airfield at JD 4604' -- which may or may not be occupied by the evil enema -- is another...
Everybody's Input Is Welcome
For everyone worried about jumping in, feel free. Everything I write is my interetation of the book, so here is the Adult Warning Label.
I could be wrong! So feel free to ask,adjust,and give your 2 cents worth.