The next stop on SC 117’s Transatlantic Link Field Study was Washington D.C.
On the first day of the visit, the Historian of the United States Senate, Donald A. Ritchie, addressed Senior Course 117 on Capitol Hill. Mr Ritchie gave an outstanding presentation on the Senate and its unique attributes vis-à-vis the House of Representatives in particular. In a thought-provoking and inspiring briefing, he discussed the historical development and structure of the US political system, the philosophy behind the crafting of the Constitution, and the role of the Senate.
Brig Gen Stephen Stick RUDDER, Legislative Assistant to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, gave SC 117 a clear explanation of the role of military personnel in Congress, and their core supporting roles in particular. His message, “We speak with many voices …but there is always one theme,” highlighted the importance of dialogue among the Senate, Operating Forces, HQMC and the House. He underscored the fundamental importance of Congressional oversight of the military in securing the resources needed for its long term well-being as a viable fighting force.
The two short briefings that followed were given by Ms Debra Wada, Deputy Staff Director of the House Armed Services Committee, and Mr William G.P. Monahan and Ms Dona White, Permanent Staff Members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. After a brief description of the Committees they represent, their roles, how Congressional oversight works, and the political perspectives and dynamics within and between the two committees, the speakers engaged in a discussion with the Senior Course during the Q&A session.
The day concluded with a reception in the Marine Barracks, hosted by Lt Gen Willie J. Williams, Director Marine Corps Staff. Course Members and staff had the opportunity to meet high ranking General Officers from the USMC, Attachés from various countries and Anciens of the NDC.
On the final day in Washington, D.C., NDC Course Members toured the historic halls of the Pentagon.
After the tour, Capt (Navy ret.) George McCaffrey, a former member of NDC staff, moderated a series of lectures. Maj Gen Darren McDew, USAF Vice Director Strategic Plans & Policy Directorate, J-5 elaborated on the day’s topics from the Joint Chiefs of Staff’s point of view. The presentation by Mrs Julianne Smith, Principal Director Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, European and NATO Policy, focused on the upcoming NATO summit in Lisbon.
Col Dan Wilson, USMC, Pakistan Afghanistan Coordination Cell gave a very interesting and intensive briefing on the current operations in Afghanistan and relations with Pakistan.
LtCol Lionel Earl, USAF, Directorate for Trans-Regional Strategic & Policy, Cyber Division, J-5 gave an instructive presentation on the US perspectives on cyber threats, and on cyber defense policies, strategies and strategic challenges.
All of the presentations were followed by question and answer sessions that were both thought-provoking and engaging. After visiting the 9-11 memorial SC 117 travelled to its last stop during this Field Study, Allied Command Transformation (ACT) at Norfolk/VA.
More about SC117 Field Study II:
First stop – SHAPE and the European Union
Second leg – NATO HQ, Brussels
Third step – The United Nations, New York.
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