Division and Corps Commanders

[dlofting]

I may have asked this before but I'm really unclear as to what a Corps or Division commander did in battle. Regimental and Brigade leaders had tactical command and usually lead from the front. So it was their job to position the companies/regiments in the right place and attack or defend as ordered....and call for help if needed.

But what did corps and division commanders do and did the positions overlap? Thoughts from anyone who has experienced battle in modern times is also welcome, even though it seems to me that the two positions that existed during the ACW have been amalgamated.

Help me out.

 

[Lampasas Bill]

Division commanders positioned their brigades and gave them orders, while Corps commanders positioned their divisions and gave them orders. The positions could overlap if necessary. For instance, a Division commander could order one of his regiments to take action in an emergency rather than take time to go through the regiment's brigade commander. This did at times result in hard feelings if a lesser officer's responsibility was bypassed.

 

[Sheltowee]

Also, maintain communication and coordination with HQ.

 

[jackt62]

Corps commanders had a large role in determining modes of movement and attack under the orders of their army commander. Grant and Lee for example, were known for establishing overall strategy and objectives and letting their corps commanders choose how to carry them out. In contrast, Division commanders were usually assigned by their Corps commander more defined and specific sector or position in which to concentrate and organize their respective brigades.