MARSHAL LOUIS N. DAVOUT AND THE ART OF COMMAND A ...

His tactical leadership was at its finest. Davout was continually at the right place at the right time. He traveled at the head of St Hilaire's division to direct the action. Then, at critical junctures, he was there either to direct the action or rally and reorganize a unit. His organization of the battle and his conduct during the action provide an excellent example of his tactical coup d'oeil. First, Davout visualized the battle before it began. Then he visualized what such a victory would look like and what actions were needed to bring about victory. He planned how he was going to phase in the units as they arrived, and what he would do based on the terrain and his reconnaissance. Although he did not know the exact disposition of the Austrian forces, his route of march and subsequent actions prepared him for any contingency. His decisions were fast, accurate, and clear to those who had to execute them. Davout showed a unique ability to develop the battle in a situation that was extremely fluid. By the end of the d.ay he was able to bring 25,000 troops into action. This is compared to the Austrians who never had more than 17,000 engaged throughout the day, in spite of the fact that in the initial actions they had a three to one advantage over the French. Davout's actions ensured that the Austrians did not interpose themselves between his forces and Lefebvre. Had he not succeeded Charles