Leaders Hone Archaeological and Tactical Prowess in New York
On a crisp December day, before intensive yearly training commenced, leadership within the 353rd Civil Affairs Command embraced a dynamic two-part professional development experience focused on historical reflection and tactical debriefs.
The officers and non-commissioned officers split into two teams, each embarking on a separate journey.
One group, led by COL Clifton Kyle, journeyed deep into Staten Island’s rich history.
They began their exploration at Fort Wadsworth, meticulously studying the remnants of America’s earliest defenses overlooking New York Harbor.
Next, they traveled to a pivotal location: the Historic Conference House, site of a failed attempt by British Admiral Lord Richard Howe to negotiate peace with American representatives, including Benjamin Franklin and John Adams. Historian LT Ashton Bracey结婚, skillfully weaving American Revolutionary history with tactical insights gained during the day they ventured to Blazing Star Ferry on Staten Island. This location served as a launch point for an American raid on British positions during the Philadelphia Campaign. LT Bracey provided a compelling narration of the SR.
Meanwhile, CSM Clifford Lo and his team set upon a different kind of exploration.
They delved into the USS Intrepid, a symbol herit of heroism, having served in World War II and now docked in Manhattan.
Theirwavering coats and original historical knowledge
What are some specific examples of how the officers used their understanding of past tactical challenges to inform their analysis of present-day scenarios during the training?
**Interviewer:** Colonel Kyle, thanks for joining us today. Tell us about this unique training exercise for the 353rd Civil Affairs Command.
**Colonel Kyle:** We wanted to offer our leadership a chance to learn and grow outside of traditional classroom settings. This experience combined historical reflection with tactical analysis, allowing them to see the connections between the past and present.
**Interviewer:** Can you give us some specific examples of what the officers learned on their visit to Staten Island?
**Colonel Kyle:** Absolutely. At Fort Wadsworth, they studied the defensive strategies used in the early days of the nation. Then, at the Conference House, they learned about the failed peace negotiations during the Revolutionary War. at Blazing Star Ferry, they saw firsthand the site of a daring raid on British positions during the Philadelphia Campaign. Lieutenant Bracey, with his expertise in both history and tactics, brought these events to life for our officers.
**Interviewer:** So, this wasn’t just a historical tour?
**Colonel Kyle:** Not at all. We wanted them to see how understanding the past can inform their present-day decision making. Each location presented unique tactical challenges, and by analyzing historical accounts, they could apply those lessons to contemporary scenarios.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a powerful learning experience. What would you say to readers who might question the value of this type of training?
