Marches: Franco-Prussian War, 1870-71

The successful advance of the Third and Meuse German Armies, and the disaster which befell the French Metz Army are excellent examples of the proper and improper application of logistical principles of march, and illustrate the manner in which they directly affect the tactical situation. Commanders of larger units should be given general directives in order to permit them to act independently and make decisions to meet sudden or local changes on their front.