On the final day in Washington, DC, NDC Course Members toured the historic halls of the Pentagon and the 9-11 memorials. Following the tour, Mr. Larry Chamler, from the National Defense University (NDU), moderated a series of lectures. The NDU scholars provided insight into 21 st century security challenges and trends, North Korea, Middle East and the future of NATO. A challenging Q&A session and panel discussion followed the briefings.
In the afternoon, the Marine Corps’ Col Hardison, J5 Plans and Policy, and Lt Col Coke, J3 Operations, addressed SC 114. They outlined the US’s global commitments as well as threats to regional and global security and stability. Their topic of discussion on what “keeps the Joint Staff awake at night” sparked an illuminating Q & A session. They also discussed the US-NATO relationship and policy. The Colonels’ exceptional operational and strategic knowledge of US global responsibilities contributed to SC 114 understanding of the US strategic approach to addressing 21 st century security challenges and trends.
On the final leg of the Transatlantic journey, the 92 course members travelled to New York City to gain invaluable insight into UN politics and strategic challenges. The role of the UN in Countering Terrorism and Challenges of UN Peacekeeping (PK) operations were the main subjects under professional scrutiny by SC 114.
The Q&A period following both presentations provided further amplification of UN and NATO political-military challenges and issues, and the value of a comprehensive approach to maintaining stability and security. The next stop is Brussels, for briefings on Belgian Foreign and Defense Policy, an operational update at SHAPE HQ, and a visit to NATO HQ.
Prepared by Colonel HOCKADAY (USA AF)
Collège de Défense de l'OTAN