TRAINING PAID OFF IN IRAQI FREEDOM.

Following any conflict, naval aviation collects lessons learned and uses that information to refine its tactics and procedures. Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) will be no different. The result was much to the liking — few combat losses, a short campaign, and confirmation that the U.S. military is both capable and competent. U.S. Armies did well and can be proud of their combat performance. One must be careful, however, not to draw too many conclusions. OIF was fought under unique circumstances, against an enemy of questionable capability and motivation. Historically speaking, the lessons learned from the U.S. military's wartime experiences have been far reaching. The tactical innovations in maneuver warfare, amphibious operations and strategic bombing following World War I were in reaction to the blood bath experienced from 1914 to 1918.