HOPEWELL, Va. –
Members of the Logistics Directorate compared the historical past with the present, analyzing large-scale logistics operations that took place from March 29 to April 9, 1865, during the Civil War with the complexities of current-day logistical requirements, during a staff ride to City Point Port June 20.
The staff ride focused on the "Appomattox Campaign," with a short guided tour and specific discussions focusing on logistics at the City Point Port. This was the Joint Task Force Civil Support directorate’s second offsite conducted as part of the J4 Officer Professional Development/NCO Professional Development (OPD/NCOPD) series for FY18.
City Point was the major logistical hub which supported the Union Forces during the siege of Petersburg, VA. Throughout the tour, the J4 staff compared and contrasted the logistic capabilities during the Appomattox Campaign with how JTF-CS conducts logistic operations today. Each section of the J4 was responsible for discussion on specific logistic functions. Navy Lt. Cmdr. David Muhl, started the discussions referencing campaign planning and factors leading to the selection of City Point as the logistics hub to support the campaign.
Next, Tim Fahey described transportation aspects that provided a unique perspective on the railroads, the harbor, and the number of horses, wagons, and railcars used to transport supplies in support of the Union forces. Tim Mark discussed supply and services provided at City Point to include contracting. Navy Cmdr. Michael Wanger highlighted the engineering and construction required at the port to include bridges, rail lines, buildings and the placement of certain services. Finally, Army Capt. Mihkel Angelo closed the discussion with an overview of the importance of well-planned and executed logistic operations.
“The offsite was a learning experience for all reminding the J4 staff that logistics is the life line of the military forces,” said Tim Collins, J4 deputy director.