Commander's Emergency Response Program

This monograph examines the execution of the Commander's Emergency Response Program (CERP) by operational forces and offers a methodology to better its execution. This study asserts that CERP is a necessary and appropriate program for operational U.S. forces. In order to improve the execution of the program, this monograph identifies four definitions of effectiveness: the political, strategic, operational and tactical, and the popular. In order to improve the efficacy of the program, training must integrate all definitions of effective CERP and be focused on the operational forces identifying and implementing projects. To accomplish this, the monograph introduces the following methodology: to create effective project outcomes, projects selected by operational forces must: Identify correctly the needs of the local populace, Nest within the national development strategy, Validate legitimate local power structures, Employ local labor and supplies, be Sustainable by local government after completion, be Timely in both initiation and completion, and analyze intended and unintended Effects. The INVEST-E methodology serves as a tool for commanders and their designated practitioners to properly select projects, increasing the effectiveness of CERP funds.