Merrill and Halsey bring aggressive, adaptive command

Halsey supplied the aggressive theater direction, while Merrill brought unusual skill in surface action. In this assessment, Merrill ranks just behind Willis Lee among American surface commanders of the period. When intelligence changed, Merrill adjusted speed and timing without losing sight of the mission. He altered the letter of the plan to preserve its purpose rather than treating the original orders as untouchable. Independent judgment, including judgment developed through imperfect junior service, could become essential at senior command level.