Battle of Saratoga Integration Study

Replica of a portrait of Horatio Gates.
Image © The Polaroid Company

The integration phase of a staff ride should be an interactive discussion between all members of the staff ride. Discussion topics should be suggested to inspire student interest and involvement in the discussion.

Location:
Location selected should provide a view commanding the majority of the battleground. This encourages discussion to focus on the terrain available. Some suggested locations for the integration phase are provided below:
- Great Redoubt
  This site provides a view of the British positions on the battlefield and would also be the final location of the staff ride if the sample walking tour is adopted.
- Breymann's Redoubt
  Another good vantage point for the British positions.
- Freeman's Farm
  This location provides a central position where much of the action of the battle took place.
Suggested Discussion Topics:
- Application of 8 Troop Leading Procedures to Battle Analysis
- Principles of War Intrinsic to Each Stage of the Battle
- Military Terrain Considerations (OCOKA) During Defense and Assaults
- Contrasts between the British and American Tactics Used
- Role of the elite Morgan's Rifle Corps of the Americans
- Benedict Arnold's Role in the Battle
- John Burgoyne's Decisions in the Battle
- Horatio Gates' Decisions in the Battle
Sample After Action Review Form - to be completed by students for instructor feedback

Links

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Last modified: October 10, 2006 14:01:13