Retired U.S. Army Colonel Kevin Benson, former Chief of Plans J-5 for Third Army, shares insights from his extensive military career and his book, Expectation of Valor. He discusses the intricate planning for the 2003 invasion of Iraq, emphasizing the importance of communication between military and civilian sectors. Benson reflects on challenges encountered in aligning military and political objectives and shares humorous anecdotes about the complexities of multinational operations. He also highlights the power of educational networks in shaping careers within military planning.