This compendium is the result of a conference on "Military Operations in
an Urban Environment" cosponsored by the Patterson School of Diplomacy
and International Commerce in conjunction with the Kentucky Commission
on Military Affairs, the U.S. Army War College, and the Association of
the United States Army. At the time of the conference, the concept of
homeland defense was emerging as an increasingly important mission for
the U.S. military. Now this mission has catapulted to prominence with
the attacks of September 11 and the appointment of a Director of
Homeland Defense-a Cabinet-level position. The authors of the chapters
examine the ongoing doctrinal thinking, draw historical comparisons, and
discuss the thoughts of those attending the conference-experts from the
military, government civilian agencies, academia, think tanks, and the
defense industry-regarding unconventional warfare. Collectively, they
provide a comprehensive report on critical factors that the U.S.
military soon may face.