BR25187 U.S. Infantryman Advancing with Caution, 1944-45

This soldier is advancing with extreme caution, enveloped in the “fog of war.” This term refers to an experience common among soldiers in battle: confusion, uncertainty, and situational anxiety. The first known use of the phrase dates to 1896 in Sir Lonsdale Augustus Hale’s book, The Fog of War. It described “the state of ignorance in which commanders frequently find themselves as regards the real strength and position, not only of their foes, but also of their friends.” Modern military doctrine suggests a trade off of precision and certainty for speed and agility. However, confusion of direction, location, and perspective on a battlefield can lead to wounding, capture, or even death so it is best to do as this soldier does and tread lightly.