School of War

Mark Montgomery, senior director at the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at FDD, shares insights on Taiwan's defense amidst growing tensions. He discusses the necessity of a strategic military stance to counter China's aggression, emphasizing innovative resource prioritization. He shares lessons from naval service and the importance of missile defense. Montgomery critiques shortsighted military decisions while exploring advanced sensor technologies and their implications for U.S. readiness, stressing the urgent need for effective deterrence.

Sabin Howard, a renowned sculptor and creator of 'A Soldier’s Journey' at the World War I Memorial in DC, shares his artistic journey and dedication to honoring veterans. He discusses the emotional weight of memorial art, blending classical techniques with modern themes. Howard delves into the complexities of war narratives, emphasizing the real human experiences behind sculptures. He also reflects on the impact of bicultural influences and the challenges faced in public art commissions, highlighting art's role in memorializing sacrifices.

Andrew Roberts, a renowned Churchill biographer, joins the conversation to challenge Darryl Cooper's controversial views on Winston Churchill. They explore the debates around Churchill's legacy during WWII, discussing whether he deserves to be seen as a villain. Roberts highlights the misconceptions about American involvement and Operation Barbarossa, emphasizing that Hitler, not Churchill, is the primary antagonist. The discussion also delves into the moral complexities of wartime decisions and the importance of understanding historical nuance.

Matt Pottinger, a distinguished visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution and Chairman of FDD's China Program, dives into the urgent defense of Taiwan. He analyzes how a potential conflict could ignite and the crucial need for deterrence against China. Pottinger draws historical parallels, discussing military preparedness and its paradoxical effects on peace. He warns against the myth of accidental wars, emphasizing that leadership decisions shape conflicts. The conversation highlights Taiwan's strategic importance in global supply chains and the necessity for coordinated defense among allies.

Roger Wicker, a U.S. Senator from Mississippi and ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, shares insights from his military background and current defense priorities. He advocates for increasing U.S. defense spending to 5% of GDP and stresses the significance of military readiness in a changing global landscape. Wicker emphasizes the need for modernizing the nuclear arsenal, reforming procurement processes for better equipment, and strengthening alliances, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and Europe, to counter rising threats.

General Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr., a retired USMC general and former commander of U.S. Central Command, shares insights on military strategy in the Middle East. He discusses the evolution of CENTCOM and the challenges of balancing resources in a changing geopolitical landscape. McKenzie elaborates on the rising tensions between Israel and Iran, highlighting the implications for regional security. He also reflects on the importance of a liberal arts education in developing strategic thinking and the emotional impact of military service.

Joshua S. Treviño, Chief of Intelligence and Research at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, discusses the pressing issues surrounding the U.S. southern border. He emphasizes that immigration isn't the root problem but rather a symptom of broader security concerns. The conversation touches on historical conflicts in Texas and their ongoing impact on border dynamics. Treviño also highlights cartels as quasi-state actors and suggests reevaluating U.S.-Mexico relations through integrated security measures, citing historical cases like the Caroline Affair.

Richard Frank, a historian and author renowned for his works on World War II, delves into the weighty legacy of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He discusses the staggering human cost, shedding light on the often overlooked casualties in China. The conversation explores the strategic military decisions leading to unconditional surrender and the contrasting approaches taken by the U.S. Army and Navy. Frank also addresses the complexities behind the bombings, urging a comprehensive understanding of their profound impact on both Japan and beyond.

Ronald C. White, a Senior Fellow at the Trinity Forum and author specializing in Joshua Chamberlain, delves into the heroic life of this Civil War leader. He discusses Chamberlain's pivotal role at Little Round Top and his unique leadership style that rallied soldiers of the 20th Maine. The podcast examines Chamberlain's remarkable courage, contrasting him with fellow leader William Oates, and explores his post-war transition from academia to political prominence. White highlights the enduring legacy of Chamberlain's values and the importance of adaptability in leadership.

Rich Goldberg, a senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, provides insights into the Israel-Iran conflict. He discusses the escalating tensions, particularly between Israel and Hezbollah, and examines the tragic civilian fallout. The conversation dives into Iran’s strategic maneuvers and the implications for U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, arguing for a unified approach. Rich emphasizes the need for a stronger American stance to navigate the complexities of regional alliances and the potential threat of a nuclear-capable Iran.