This paper reviews state of the art for high level programming languages and traces their development from first generation computers to the present day. A review and comparison of industry and Army standards for program documentation is made and differences discussed. Based upon field interviews, findings concerning command unique documentation are presented. Conclusions indicate that more powerful and cost effectve high level languages are available for use and that documentation for command unique software is not adequate. Recommendations are made for securing a system language, establishing a central review and approval authority for software documentation, and for various follow up studies. (Author).