Urban Warfare Project
From West Point to the Battle of Marawi
May 9, 2025
Major Floren Herrera, a graduate of West Point and a veteran of the 2017 Battle of Marawi, shares his journey from military academy to combat leader. He recounts the intense urban warfare against ISIS-affiliated militants and the tactical challenges faced during this gripping battle. Herrera emphasizes the crucial leadership lessons learned under fire, the bond among soldiers, and the emotional toll of loss. He also discusses the military's adaptation from jungle to urban warfare, highlighting the need for effective communication and quick decision-making in high-pressure situations.
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Quick takeaways
- Major Floren Herrera emphasized the importance of decisive leadership and fostering resilience among troops during the chaotic urban combat of Marawi.
- His education at West Point provided crucial tools for effective decision-making and promoting open communication in high-pressure battlefield scenarios.
Deep dives
The Battle of Marawi: A Strategic Overview
The Battle of Marawi began on May 23, 2017, when ISIS-affiliated militants seized significant portions of the city, aiming to create a caliphate in Southeast Asia. This five-month urban warfare campaign marked the longest battle in Philippine military history since World War II, resulting in the displacement of over 200,000 residents and extensive destruction throughout the city. The Philippine military, aided by U.S. advisors, faced a well-fortified enemy estimated to consist of over 1,000 fighters, equipped with snipers, IEDs, and human shields. The battle concluded on October 23, having claimed over 160 lives of Philippine soldiers and left a lasting legacy influencing future urban warfare and counterterrorism strategies in the country.
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