The Value of Operational Art to the Joint Force w/ LTG Milford H. Beagle
Jan 19, 2023
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LTG Milford H. Beagle, Commander of the Combined Arms Center at Fort Leavenworth, discusses the value of operational art in the joint force, emphasizing courage in planning and providing returns to superiors, peers, and subordinates. The podcast explores the challenges and strategies of operational art, highlights the importance of military education for future challenges, and discusses embracing uncertainty in military operations.
Emphasizing the value of operational art in military planning for joint force effectiveness and leadership readiness.
Incorporating agile learning and diverse training methods in professional military education to enhance operational preparedness.
Utilizing virtual reality and innovative training tools to simulate complex scenarios and improve decision-making in dynamic operational environments.
Encouraging leaders to embrace discomfort, uncertainty, and continuous learning to better prepare for unpredictable operational challenges.
Deep dives
Adapting to Uncertainty Through Education and Training
In a discussion on the podcast, the importance of adapting to uncertainty through education and training is emphasized. While the traditional notion of training for certainty and educating for uncertainty has been a staple, recent events like the conflict in Ukraine have challenged this approach. The flexibility and adaptability displayed by forces in uncertain situations present the need to thrive in uncomfortable circumstances. The podcast highlighted the shift towards actively thriving in uncertainty rather than just being prepared for it.
Value of Operational Art and Education in the Military
The podcast episode delves into the significance of operational art in military planning and leadership. Lieutenant General Beagle discusses the value of operational art to the joint force and emphasizes the importance of preparing leaders for uncertainty. The conversation touches on integrating the modern operational level of war into military training programs to meet future challenges effectively. Understanding operational art and its application in military planning processes is crucial for developing leaders and enhancing strategic decision-making.
Importance of Agile Learning and Training Programs
The podcast highlights the importance of agile learning and training programs in professional military education. Lieutenant General Beagle discusses the need for more adaptable and responsive educational curriculums. He stresses the significance of integrating diverse frameworks and tools in NCO and officer development programs to enhance the study of operational art. Emphasizing the agile nature of educational approaches and promoting continuous learning are key factors in ensuring readiness for future operational challenges.
Incorporating Virtual Reality and Innovative Training Tools
The episode explores the use of virtual reality and innovative training tools in military education and development. Mentioned tools like the Vortexes program offer virtual training experiences for military units. The discussion underscores the importance of utilizing technology to enhance training effectiveness and readiness. By leveraging virtual reality and modern training methodologies, units can simulate complex scenarios and improve decision-making in a dynamic operational environment.
Efforts in PME Modernization and Adaptive Training Methods
Lieutenant General Beagle outlines efforts in professional military education (PME) modernization and the integration of adaptive training methods. The discussion reflects on the challenges of changing program of instruction (POIs) and emphasizes the need for agility in educational frameworks. Initiatives aimed at enhancing non-material aspects of PME underscore the importance of aligning training strategies with organizational readiness. The discussion highlights the importance of time management and resource prioritization in fostering effective training and education programs.
Recommendations for Leaders in Developing Operational Understanding
The podcast episode concludes with recommendations for leaders in developing a comprehensive understanding of operational art and military planning. Emphasizing the value of diverse learning approaches, Lieutenant General Beagle encourages leaders to engage in continuous education and professional development. Recommendations include leveraging podcasts, online resources, and immersive training tools to enhance operational understanding and decision-making. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and embracing agility in training methods, leaders can better prepare for operational challenges and uncertainties.
Closing Remarks on Adapting to Uncertainty and Thriving in Discomfort
Lastly, Lieutenant General Beagle provides closing remarks on the importance of adapting to uncertainty and thriving in discomfort. Reflecting on the experiences in Ukraine, the discussion urges military personnel to embrace discomfort and uncertainty as opportunities for growth and development. The episode underscores the need for military leaders to excel in unpredictable environments and emphasizes the value of agility, adaptability, and continuous learning in preparing for future operational scenarios.
Season 1 Episode 1 of the Operational Arch examines the value of operational art to the joint force and what commanders expect from their operational artists and planners.
Our guest is the Commander of the Combined Arms Center at Fort Leavenworth, LTG Milford H. Beagle. LTG Beagle discusses his experiences as a planner, the concept of courage in planning, and how planners can use their skills to accomplish the mission and provide returns to their superiors, peers, and subordinates.
LTG Milford H. Beagle commissioned as an infantry officer in 1990 and recently finished his command of the historic 10th Mountain Division (Climb to Glory!). He is a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan whose career assignments have spanned the globe and is a 2003 graduate of the Advanced Military Studies Program at SAMS.
MAJs Josh Bedingfield, Dan Warner, and Kelsey Kurtz are the hosts for this episode. You can contact them at operationalarch@gmail.com with any questions you may have.
School of Advanced Military Studies: https://armyuniversity.edu/CGSC/SAMS/SAMS
Twitter: https://twitter.com/us_sams
Intro and Outro Music: "On and On" by Christian Bedingfield
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