“Take the enemy airfield so we can use it ourselves.” The commander’s intent clarifies the goal so that all strategies and tactics (Should we blow up the air traffic control room or not?) can be evaluated. The commander’s intent is another way of describing the clear purpose and desired end state of a mission. This statement is usually brief and exceedingly clear, easily communicated to any decision maker in the change of command. There is perhaps no greater responsibility and no greater gift leadership can give a group of people on a mission than to have the clearest, most defined mission
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