On 1 February 2012, the College hosted General John R. Allen, the Commander of the International Security Assistance Force – Afghanistan (COM ISAF). After a brief tour of the College and office call with the NDC Commandant, Lieutenant General Arne Bård Dalhaug, General Allen delivered a strategic lecture of opportunity to the Course Members of Senior Course 119, and the NDC faculty and staff.
The Dean of the College, Dr. Richard Hooker, Jr., introduced COM ISAF as a seasoned US Marine warfighter and commander, with vast experience in political-military affairs and multinational operations. General Allen assumed his duties as COM ISAF and Commander, United States Forces – Afghanistan, on July 18, 2011.
General Allen congratulated the Course Members of SC 119 (who will graduate later this week), and spoke to the importance of courses such as the Senior Course, for the relationships they generate, which are so critical to the nature of coalition and Allied operations. COM ISAF also provided valuable, personal insights into his priorities for the ISAF mission and his perspectives on strategic leadership. The general concluded his remarks, by engaging Course members in a thought-provoking discussion session, providing his views on the future of Afghanistan, ISAF, and the region.
The NDC Commandant thanked General Allen for taking time from his busy schedule and heavy responsibilities, and for sharing his valuable strategic insights on an issue of such priority to the Alliance. Today’s distinguished address marked a very special end to the academic programme of SC 119. The final event of the course is the graduation ceremony, scheduled for Friday, 3 February.
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