Since commanders were no longer selected by pedigree, the chiefs of staff were no longer joint commanders. Their role was The commander must be supported by obedient, independent and critical advising General Staff officers ("Fuehrergehilfen"). They provide him with information and advice, prepare decisions, turn them into orders and measures and supervise their execution. If necessary, they urge the commander to decide and act. Their thinking and actions must be guided by his will and intentions and must be determined by his decisions and orders.