2007 Fluid Orbat Project

The 2006-2007 winter season will be an interesting time for the CEFSG Matrix Project, as many of us consolidate resources to bring the "Fluid Orbat" to the Matrix Utilities. For those that are not versed in the definition of the ORBAT, let me quote what was presented by our fearless experts when we first started to discuss this concept (as it really is part of the foundation of the Matrix Project):

The Order of Battle is defined as a listing of all units involved directly, or indirectly in a specific supporting role, in the conduct of a specific battle during a specific period of time. (Michael Thierens Post 2004)

We also know now that the ORBAT may also be directly related not only to a specific time, but a specific place, as not all units were in the same place at the same time on any given date. For the complete definitions from Michael and Bill, check this:

ORBAT EXPLAINED

You will note from the Matrix information that we started with the Nicholson ORBAT of November 1918, as that was the final structure of the CEF at the end of the war. The new ORBAT information now goes back to show what units were involved when the Great War started in 1914 and how that changed as the battles progressed through 1915, 1916 and 1917. We have for now broken this up into the 4 Quarters of the Year so you can see how the structure changed in any one year. From that we can then branch off to any specific battle at a given time or place.

Some have said that "we can not do what we are planning to do" and of course our response has to be "who knows until we try" and it is certainly more than what we have right now. If you have an interest in this area of the CEF military history, then join us and participate in the project. If you are a follower and not a leader, then help us by reviewing what will be done and offer your comments.