Operation Market Garden Comparing BG Gavin’s Leadership With Today’s Principles of Mission Command Douglas Ritter BG James Gavin’s leadership, both in planning and execution, was a significant factor in the success of the 82 nd Airborne Division during Operation Market Garden and his successful leadership was possible due to a mastery of certain Mission Command principles. BG Gavin and his subordinates displayed disciplined initiative and risk acceptance during the execution of Operation Market Garden through their initial actions and during the gap crossings. Furthermore, BG Gavin’s leadership style was possible because his Paratroopers viewed him as a competent leader and Gavin had a strong, supporting mutual trust with his subordinate leaders.