What happens when vertical cohesion breaks down within a command?

When vertical cohesion within a command breaks down, the most likely outcome is that Marines begin to identify more with their immediate peers rather than with the overall command. Vertical cohesion refers to the strength of the relationships and trust between different levels of the command hierarchy. When this cohesion is strong, it fosters unity and loyalty toward the leadership and mission. However, when it erodes, individuals may feel disconnected from their leaders and the broader objectives of the unit, leading them to rely more heavily on their fellow Marines at the same level.

This shift in loyalty often results in a focus on peer relationships over the hierarchical structure, which can limit the effectiveness of communication and directives from leadership. As a result, the alignment with the higher command diminishes, which can negatively impact unity and the execution of the mission, demonstrating how crucial vertical cohesion is for maintaining a strong, effective unit.