School of War

Stephen Rabe, a historian and the author of The Lost Paratroopers of Normandy, delves into the emotional and layered history of the Normandy invasion. He shares a personal connection through his father's experiences as a WWII paratrooper. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by the 507th Regiment, including unexpected flooding and the villagers' critical support. Rabe also sheds light on the tragic fate of unarmed medical personnel, emphasizing the moral complexities of war and the long-term impacts on soldiers and communities.

Fred Kagan, a senior fellow and director of the Critical Threats Project at AEI, discusses Ukraine’s bold drone strikes on Russian air assets. He highlights the remarkable tactics employed and the implications for modern warfare. The conversation delves into the complexities of nuclear deterrence and the risks of escalation. Kagan also emphasizes the importance of surprise in combat, examining how traditional strategies adapt to high-tech warfare. Ultimately, he critiques the dynamics influencing military strategies and peace negotiations in the ongoing conflict.

Lieutenant Colonel Zachary Griffiths, a Special Forces officer and director of the Harding Project, joins Major McKinsey Harb, a strategist and lead author of the new Army Field Manual 1. They delve into the evolution of military mindsets, the significance of fostering a warrior ethos, and the balance between leadership and followership. Their insights also reveal the challenges of military communication and the impact of historical figures, like a WWII dentist-turned-hero, on the modern understanding of military identity.

Rick Atkinson, a renowned historian and author of several acclaimed works on the American Revolution, shares a deep dive into the causes and consequences of this pivotal conflict. He examines British strategies and the mindset leading up to the Battle of Lexington and Concord. The discussion also highlights George Washington's leadership and Benjamin Franklin's diplomatic efforts in Paris. As Atkinson reflects on the upcoming 250th anniversary, he encourages a nuanced understanding of America's revolutionary legacy, celebrating achievements while recognizing historical flaws.

Jonathan Hackett, a former U.S. Marine Corps interrogator and author of Theory of Irregular War, delves into the complexities of irregular warfare following America’s post-9/11 conflicts. He discusses the evolution of interrogation techniques, highlighting the shift from coercive methods to rapport-building. Hackett critiques U.S. military strategies in Iraq and Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for local engagement and understanding cultural contexts. He calls for a rethinking of military approaches and underscores the importance of non-military solutions in modern geopolitics.

Robert D. Kaplan, the Robert Strausz-Hupé Chair in Geopolitics, dives into the world's enduring crises. He reflects on his formative experiences in Far Rockaway and the significant literary influences that shaped his worldview. Kaplan draws parallels between historical and contemporary conflicts, notably the Balkans and Weimar Germany. He critiques the decline of Western leadership in a rapidly changing global landscape, while also discussing the impact of AI on education and individualism in modern cities. A captivating exploration of political and cultural dynamics!

Mick Ryan, a retired major general in the Australian Army and author of The War for Ukraine, dives into the complexities of the Ukrainian battlefield. He shares firsthand insights on the evolving roles of drones and the adaptability of military strategies. Ryan discusses the necessity of rethinking procurement for rapid response, and challenges the notion that artillery is obsolete. The conversation also touches on Putin's ambitions, the potential for a ceasefire, and the surprising resilience of military tactics in modern warfare.

In this discussion, military historians Thomas Bruscino and Mitchell G. Klingenberg dive into the intricate world of military mapping. They share insights on the limitations of traditional military maps and their vital role in strategic decisions. Exploring the Gettysburg Campaign, they highlight key moments of leadership under pressure, such as Meade's command. The duo emphasizes the importance of modern visualization techniques and teamwork in enhancing operational effectiveness, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of historical warfare.

John Hillen, a military veteran turned business leader and professor, dives into the art of strategic thinking across war and corporate life. He shares gripping stories from the Gulf War, particularly the pivotal Battle of 73 Easting, and reflects on witnessing the fall of the Iron Curtain. Hillen emphasizes that strategy is more than just setting goals; it requires real-time decision-making and foresight. Furthermore, he explores the surprising connections between gaming and military history, revealing how the Call of Duty franchise enhances civics education.

Mark Moyar, a military historian and author, shares insights on the Vietnam War's pivotal moments. He discusses the orthodox versus revisionist views on U.S. involvement and the influence of the anti-war movement. The complexities of Ho Chi Minh’s dual identity as a nationalist and communist are explored, alongside the consequences of the 1963 coup that deepened American engagement. Moyar also examines Nixon's strategies, including Vietnamization, and reflects on the war's fallout, emphasizing the lasting impact on American memory.