Retired three-star General MacFarland discusses leading III Corps in fighting ISIS, sharing insights on the Battle of Ramadi and September 11th. They explore combat challenges, tribal alliances, intense battles, and moral dilemmas faced in wartime. The episode showcases heroic acts, sacrifices, and the importance of leadership in military operations.
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Quick takeaways
Effective leadership is vital in optimizing team dynamics and operational efficiency in combat zones.
Balancing military strategies and diplomatic negotiations is crucial in post-Cold War scenarios.
Resilience and commitment to excellence are key in elevating proficient units to the next level.
Adapting to enemy tactics and coordinating with supporting forces are essential in combat operations.
Engaging with the human terrain and prioritizing civilian protection are critical in counterinsurgency operations.
Training indigenous forces and targeting deep-rooted support sources are key in countering terrorist organizations like ISIS.
Deep dives
Leadership and Experience in Combat Zones
The experience in combat zones provided insight into the importance of leadership and adaptability. Examples include negotiating with locals for base camps in Bosnia and integrating coalition forces in Desert Storm. The speaker also highlighted the nuances of interpreting body language and interactions during sensitive discussions.
Career Progression and Diplomacy
The speaker's career progression showcased a blend of military roles and diplomatic nuances. From engaging in joint operations to working with prominent Army leaders, the journey highlighted the delicate balance between military strategies and diplomatic negotiations, especially in evolving post-Cold War scenarios.
Battalion Command Excellence and Team Dynamics
As a battalion commander, the speaker excelled in optimizing team dynamics and operational efficiency. The emphasis on strong non-commissioned officer leadership, high re-enlistment rates, and operational readiness showcased a successful command experience. The ability to elevate a proficient unit to the next level demonstrated effective leadership skills and a commitment to excellence.
Challenge of Transition and Defensive Belts
The strategy centered on attacking Al Qaeda safe havens, establishing lasting presence to disrupt their operations and regain people's confidence. Defensive belts and rings were set up by the enemy within the city, challenging our advance. The enemy had formidable defensive arrangements and planned to divide and protect Ramadi.
Combat Outpost Iron and Coordinated Attacks
At Cop Iron, Navy SEALs went in first to secure the site and provide overwatch. A coordinated enemy attack at eCP3 inflicted heavy casualties on the Iraqi forces. The enemy developed well-coordinated attacks and defensive strategies within the city.
Losses and Resilience of One Three Five Armor
One Three Five Armor from the sister brigade faced significant losses in an environment with thin resources. Despite heavy casualties and being spread thin, they showed resilience and commitment, taking on critical roles in the coordinated strategy to regain control of Ramadi.
Adapting to Enemy Tactics and Supporting Forces
Challenges included countering enemy tactics like coordinated attacks and defensive setups, necessitating adaptation. Supporting forces, like Navy SEALs and Iraqi tank companies, played crucial roles in countering the enemy's strategies and establishing security in critical locations.
Combat Operations and Synergy
Combat operations in Ramadi involved conducting major operations every few days to keep the enemy off balance. Synergy among units like armored reconnaissance and snipers played vital roles in missions. Creativity in inserting teams, like using boats in operations, demonstrated innovation in capabilities beyond conventional methods.
Protection of the Population and Civil Affairs
Efforts to protect the local population in Ramadi were a critical focus. Strategies included engaging with civilians and tribal entities, conducting census patrols, and implementing civil-military operations. Condolence payments and swift investigations were key responses to unfortunate civilian casualties, aiming to maintain trust and mitigate harm.
Heroism and Sacrifice
Instances of heroism and sacrifice were prevalent during intense combat situations. Soldiers and Marines displayed remarkable courage and brotherhood, undertaking daring rescue missions and valiantly facing enemy threats. Families of fallen servicemen exhibited strength and empathy, highlighting their unwavering support for troops amidst heart-wrenching losses.
The Importance of Understanding Human Terrain in Counterinsurgency
Understanding and engaging with the human terrain, including tribal alliances, economic disruptions, and civilian relationships, is crucial in counterinsurgency operations. By prioritizing the human terrain over traditional military objectives, such as killing insurgent forces, commanders can create lasting strategic advantages and gain support from the local population.
Taking Risks, Showing Perseverance, and Building Trust
Commanders in combat must be willing to take risks, show perseverance in the face of adversity, and build trust with their subordinates to ensure sound decision-making and operational success. By accepting risks, remaining determined, and trusting their team to make the right calls, commanders can navigate complex and challenging situations effectively.
Securing the Populace and Upholding Moral High Ground
In counterinsurgency operations, securing the populace and upholding the moral high ground are essential strategies for success. By disrupting enemy activities, engaging with local tribes, and ensuring moral superiority in conflict, commanders can effectively combat insurgent forces and gain the support of the civilian population.
Adapting to Changing Roles in Combat
In combat situations, like in Iraq and Afghanistan, adapting to changing roles and requirements was crucial for success. For instance, facing unconventional forces like ISIS required altering traditional strategies to combat them effectively. Understanding the nature of the war and adjusting tactics accordingly, such as revising noncombatant casualty values and training troops for new challenges, enabled more strategic and successful operations.
The Role of Indigenous Forces and Special Ops
The involvement and training of indigenous forces, such as the Counter Terrorism Service in Iraq, played a major role in countering ISIS. Special Operations Forces, like the Navy SEALs and Special Forces, worked alongside these local troops to enhance effectiveness and improve operational outcomes. Joint Task Force operations and shared responsibilities between different forces further contributed to successful missions.
Key Strategies in Targeting and Neutralizing ISIS
Combatting ISIS involved a multi-faceted approach, including targeting deep-rooted sources of funding and support for the terrorist organization. Strategies for engaging deep targets, dismantling financial structures, and weakening ISIS through targeted strikes and military measures were key components of the campaign. Coordinating with international partners and integrating various forces helped to effectively degrade and defeat ISIS across multiple fronts.
Successes and Challenges in Combat Operations
Despite challenges like adapting to new roles and navigating complex political environments, combat operations against ISIS saw significant successes in neutralizing key threats and terrorist activities. Training and leveraging indigenous forces, strategic targeting of enemy resources, and coordinating joint operations were essential in achieving military objectives and countering the spread of terrorism.
The Use of Deep Strikes to Weaken ISIS Financially
Deep strikes targeting banks holding ISIS funds effectively hindered their financial capabilities, causing a significant decline in morale and capacity among foreign fighters. The strategic importance of targeting financial resources had a measurable impact on weakening the enemy in locations like Mosul.
Challenges and Considerations in Military Strategy
General McFarland discusses strategic priorities, including balancing resources between intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) for High Value Individual (HVI) hunting and deep strikes against financial targets. He emphasizes the need for resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving threats, highlighting the importance of continual mentorship and guidance for upcoming military leaders.
Lieutenant General Sean Barry MacFarland is a retired three-star general who served in the United States Army. In 2015 MacFarland, then commanding III Corps, was selected as commander of the coalition against ISIS in Syria and Iraq.
0:00:00 - Introduction.
0:04:39 - September 11th.
1:32:40 - The Battle of Ramadi.
5:06:53 - Coming Home.
6:36:00 - Final thoughts and how to stay on THE PATH.
