Combatant Vs. Auxiliary Roles
The roles of combatant and auxiliary ships can overlap. An aircraft carrier's roles start with the traditional auxiliary roles of transport (of aircraft) and replenishment (of her battle group), but the ability to launch her aircraft for offensive strikes or defensive air cover makes her a prime combatant. The difference between a combatant amphibious assault ship and an auxiliary troop ship, both of which carry troops, is the organic ability to land the troops under combat conditions with landing craft or helicopters. Unarmed supply, research, and rescue submarines are properly auxiliaries.
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Famous quotes containing the word roles:
“There is a striking dichotomy between the behavior of many women in their lives at work and in their lives as mothers. Many of the same women who are battling stereotypes on the job, who are up against unspoken assumptions about the roles of men and women, seem to acceptand in their acceptance seem to reinforcethese roles at home with both their sons and their daughters.”
—Ellen Lewis (20th century)