Pearl Harbor as a forward-base problem

Pearl Harbor had grown quickly from a small detachment and still lacked much of the infrastructure a major fleet needed. Admiral James Richardson argued that shortages of ammunition, targets, auxiliaries, training, and supplies made the position an operational and logistical liability. He preferred returning the fleet to the Pacific coast until crews, ammunition, stores, fuel, and supporting ships were ready for war. A forward fleet can signal resolve, but a well-informed opponent may also see its practical weaknesses.