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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Joining Battle Mid-Fight
- Major Floren Herrera rejoined his unit during the Battle of Marawi after initially being on academic break.
- He stepped up as acting officer in charge when the commander was hospitalized during intense combat.
Mindset in Urban Combat
- Urban combat demands mental focus amid constant loss and chaos.
- Decisiveness and aggression are critical; hesitation leads to death in close fighting.
Leading From The Front
- Herrera pledged to his platoon that he would be the first to fall if anyone died under his command.
- He led from the front, often taking point in dangerous engagements until his men’s aggressive support pushed ahead of him.