Wilson Center Experts Brief Military Officers from the Medical Strategic Leadership Program

On Tuesday, March 3rd, twenty-two mid and senior-level military medical officers, representing both the United States and over 10 foreign partner nations from the Medical Strategic Leadership Program, participated in a briefing presented by Wilson Center experts Amy Austin Holmes, Aaron Jones, and Duncan Wood.

The briefing consisted of the following: a presentation by Holmes on the current status of Northeastern Syria as it pertains to the presence of U.S. and Turkish forces in the region, the differing militant factions combating ISIL, the role of women in society, and the general perception among the populace of whether or not the United States should remain in Syria; a presentation by Aaron Jones on the history and current state of bipartisanship in the United States Congress, as well as how best to promote increased cooperation across the aisle; and a discussion led by Duncan Wood on the current state of U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly along the lines of trade and inter-state cooperation on immigration and securing the U.S. southern border.

The Medical Strategic Leadership Program is an initiative begun by the U.S. Army Medical Department Center & School to provide the opportunity for U.S. and international military medical officers to integrate, train, and prepare for strategic-level medical command positions.

Comments given by the MSLP program participants about their experience:

What aspects of the event did you find most interesting or useful?

“All of these presentations were excellent in quality of information presented.” – Lt. Col. Mike Kaiser (Canadian Army)

“Ms. Holmes’ presentation was enlightening. Her firsthand knowledge was very valuable.” – Col. James Grady (U.S. Army)

How will this experience benefit your career or future studies?

“The situational awareness of Mexico’s politics/economics/public health issues (and reasons why) is immensely helpful for current and future areas for me at work.” – Col. Deb Whitmer (U.S. Army)

“As an aspiring strategic leader, what I have learned will certainly improve on my view of world issues.” – Col. Ambrose Oiko (Uganda Peoples’ Defense Force)

Would you recommend a visit to the Wilson Center to a friend or colleague?

“Absolutely. The fellows and researchers here are clearly experts in their fields and their knowledge should be consulted in helping shape strategic policies for our nation.” – Cpt. Victor Diaz (U.S. Navy)

“Yes, informed and unbiased opinions are always refreshing.” – Lt. Col. James Watts (U.S. Army)