Midrats

Take a break from the heat today to discuss some of the hidden history, and importance, of the Presidential retreat at Camp David with the author of the book, Presidential Seclusion: The Power of Camp David, Charles Ferguson.After graduating from Georgia Tech and earning his commission, Charles Ferguson served for 11 years in the Submarine force onboard the USS Louisville and as Weapons Officer onboard USS Buffalo with a shore duty at Nuclear Power School in between. He switched to the IRR as Chaplain Candidate while attending seminary at Duke Divinity School and was recommissioned as an Active Duty Chaplain in 2010. As a chaplain he has served with both Navy and Marine Corps commands to include three and a half years as the Chaplain and Historian at Camp David.ShowlinkPresidential Seclusion: The Power of Camp DavidSummaryThis conversation explores the historical significance and operational dynamics of the Presidential retreat of Camp David. The discussion highlights its origins, the Navy's role in its management, and the unique environment it provides for presidents to make critical decisions. The conversation also delves into the architectural design that facilitates diplomacy, notable guests who have visited, and the personal touches each president has added to the retreat. Additionally, the role of the chaplain and the supportive relationship with the local community are examined, emphasizing the importance of solitude for leaders in high-pressure positions.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Camp David's Significance05:35: The Navy's Role in Camp David's History10:27: Becoming the Chaplain and Historian at Camp David15:22: The Origins and Transformation of Camp David20:38: The Impact of Camp David on Presidential Decisions29:15: Notable Guests and Diplomatic Encounters at Camp David30:53: Architectural Diplomacy at Camp David34:20: Presidential Modifications and Personal Touches38:04: The Origin of Camp David's Name40:58: Management and Operations at Camp David43:13: The Role of the Chaplain45:25: The Solitude of Leadership49:32: Community Interactions and Local Support53:22: Memorable Moments and Staff Contributions58:14: The Importance of Setting Conditions for Peace01:00: Future Projects and Closing Thoughts

Show LinkInfantryDort’s comment mentioned at start of the showSummaryThe conversation explores the themes of cultural assimilation, national identity, freedom of speech, and the challenges of civil discourse in contemporary society. The hosts discuss the implications of cultural integration on national security and the importance of leadership in fostering a healthy societal environment. They reflect on the historical context of civil rights movements and the need for a national conversation about current societal issues, emphasizing the value of freedom and the responsibilities that come with it.Chapters00:00: Introduction02:00: Cultural Assimilation and National Identity09:42: Challenges of Assimilation and Cultural Clashes14:47: Freedom of Speech and Its Boundaries20:31: The Role of Universities in Civil Discourse28:15: Historical Context of Civil Rights and Current Issues37:49: Protests and Civil Disobedience47:53: National Security and Military Readiness

What can the world’s most capable maritime and aerospace power do?The world was reminded this weekend.There is no other place this week’s Midrats could start but the strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.SummaryThe conversation delves into the recent Operation Midnight Hammer, discussing its implications for U.S.-Iran relations, the threat of Iranian retaliation, and the strategic military operations involved. The hosts analyze the historical context of U.S.-Iran tensions, the effectiveness of military responses, and the broader geopolitical landscape, including the role of international relations and domestic political reactions. They also touch on naval operations, fleet readiness, and the evolving nature of mine warfare in modern military strategy.Chapters00:00: Operation Midnight Hammer: A Historic Overview05:31: Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and U.S. Response12:03: The Threat of Iranian Retaliation18:03: Military Capabilities and Strategic Operations23:09: The Role of International Relations29:09: Domestic Reactions and Political Implications35:08: The Future of U.S.-Iran Relations41:45: Naval Operations and Fleet Readiness48:04: Mine Warfare and Modern Naval Strategy54:47: Concluding Thoughts on Military Success and Future Challenges

Today we’re going to take a friend’s Substack post and turn it into one of the best podcast hours you’ll have this summer…and maybe give you some ideas about books you need to take with you for the July 4th weekend.From Claude’s May 23rd Substack:From the gun decks of HMS Indefatigable to the command chair of a futuristic starship, the portrayal of naval officers in fiction has evolved alongside society's changing views of leadership, warfare, and heroism. The archetype of the naval officer has been shaped not only by historical precedent but also by the imaginative needs of authors responding to their times.Show Links:The Fictional Officer Corps: From Hornblower to Stark, by Claude BerubeThe Connor Stark novels and other books, by Claude BerubeThe Hornblower Series, by C. S. ForesterAubrey/Maturin Novels, by Patrick O'BrianThe Caine Mutiny, by Herman WoukStar Trek: The Original SeriesRun Silent, Run Deep, by Edward L. BeachHonor Harrington Series, by David WeberThe Winds of War, by Herman WoukMister Roberts, by Thomas HeggenWicked, by Gregory MaguireStar Wars’ Boba FettP.T. DeutermanMary CelesteSummaryIn this episode of Midrats, Sal, Mark, and Claude Berube discuss the evolution of naval fiction and its impact on leadership. They explore how naval characters in literature reflect societal changes and the complexities of leadership in both historical and modern contexts. The conversation delves into moral dilemmas faced by leaders, the significance of character development, and the challenges of internal rivalries within naval settings. Additionally, they touch on the importance of historical accuracy in fiction and the future of naval literature in a rapidly changing world.TakeawaysFiction serves as a unique tool for exploring leadership.Naval characters in literature evolve with societal changes.Moral dilemmas are central to understanding leadership.Internal rivalries can challenge leadership effectiveness.Historical accuracy enhances the depth of naval stories.The readership among young people is declining.Stories about the human condition resonate deeply with readers.The future of naval literature faces uncertainties.Understanding the past is essential for shaping future narratives.Chapters00:00: Introduction to the Conversation02:00: The Evolution of Naval Fiction04:03: Character Development in Naval Literature13:55: Leadership and Command in Fiction20:36: Moral Dilemmas in Naval Leadership25:40: The Future of Naval Literature28:46: The Evolution of Heroism at Sea31:06: Leadership Dynamics in Fiction and Reality35:27: Character Studies in Leadership41:02: Navigating Internal Rivalries46:24: The Changing Landscape of Naval Literature

Mark and I are back from most of May taking care of business!Time for a MIDRATS!Show LinksPentagon chief tells Asian allies: Raise defence spending to 5% of GDP like EuropeTom Shugart post on PRC ship in Norfolk, from APR 20241980s Strategic Homeporting InitiativeClaude Berube on OSS developing deep strike drone boats against Japanese bridges and tunnels in WW2Operation PigeonBat bombsThe Atlantic on Who Killed America’s Shipbuilding Industry?Korean Shipyard ModernizationNavy Secretary "Shocked and Dismayed" at Condition of Base Housing on GuamSummaryIn this episode, Sal and Mark discuss the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine War, focusing on Ukraine's innovative strategies and the implications for modern warfare. They explore the role of AI in military operations, the importance of strategic home porting, and the vulnerabilities in military infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the future of U.S. defense spending and the need to revitalize America's shipbuilding industry.TakeawaysThe Ukraine conflict has highlighted innovative military strategies.AI is becoming increasingly integrated into modern warfare.Strategic home porting is essential for national security.Military infrastructure vulnerabilities need urgent attention.Dispersing military assets can reduce risk in conflict scenarios.Revitalizing shipbuilding is crucial for military readiness.Simplifying the acquisition process can enhance military capabilities.Caring for military personnel is a priority for effective defense.Lessons from Ukraine can inform future military strategies.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Overview of Current Events02:11: Analysis of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict06:35: Technological Advancements in Warfare12:18: Strategic Homeporting and Military Vulnerabilities18:42: Lessons from Historical Military Engagements24:51: Infrastructure and Operational Challenges32:09: Rebuilding Naval Bases and Infrastructure34:39: Hardening National Defense and Infrastructure36:08: Geopolitical Concerns: China and Russia40:18: Shipbuilding Industry Challenges and Innovations46:13: Defense Spending and Budget Allocation50:36: Leadership and Accountability in Defense Programs53:32: The Future of Warfare and Military Strategy

The People’s Republic of China continues to expand its already well-established contestation of ownership, access, and control of ports throughout the world.They have done this in parallel with building the world’s largest navy and a diverse set of military capabilities clearly designed with one purpose—defeating the U.S. military in the Indo-Pacific.Returning to Midrats to discuss this and related topics is be T. X. Hammes.T.X. is a distinguished research fellow at the Center for Strategic Research, National Defense University. He served 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.Show LinksChina’s exploitation of overseas ports and basesKratos XQ-58 ValkyrieAres anti-ship cruise missileTyphonMWI Podcast: The Future Battlefield, from Europe to the Indo-PacificThe Eastern FrontSummaryIn this conversation, Sal, Mark, and T.X. Hammes discuss the implications of China's global expansion, particularly its military strategy and naval capabilities. They explore how China is leveraging its control over ports and logistics to challenge U.S. dominance in the Indo-Pacific. The discussion also delves into operational planning assumptions for potential conflict with China, the historical context of long wars, and the challenges facing U.S. military readiness. Innovative solutions for naval warfare, the importance of economic exhaustion and sea control, and the role of mines in modern warfare are also examined. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of military technology and the potential for leveraging civilian resources in military operations.TakeawaysChina's global expansion poses significant challenges to U.S. interests.The U.S. Navy must adapt to China's growing naval capabilities.China's unconventional use of ports can disrupt global trade.Long wars are historically common between healthy powers.U.S. military readiness is not sufficient for a prolonged conflict.Innovative solutions like missile barges could enhance naval warfare.Economic exhaustion is a critical factor in long-term conflicts.Mines could play a crucial role in modern naval strategy.The focus should shift from platforms to payloads in military planning.Leveraging civilian resources can enhance military capabilities.Chapters00:00: Introduction to China's Global Expansion02:36: China's Naval Capabilities and Strategic Ports10:42: Planning Assumptions for Potential Conflict21:29: Control of the Sea and Economic Exhaustion30:26: Utilizing Merchant Ships in Warfare33:27: Investing in Future Military Technologies35:44: Innovative Solutions for Pacific Defense40:11: The Role of Unmanned Systems in Modern Warfare42:57: Lessons from the Russo-Ukrainian War44:59: Adapting Combined Arms for Modern Conflicts48:44: The Importance of Flexibility in Naval Operations53:10: Building a Resilient Merchant Fleet55:57: Exploring New Strategies for Warfare01:00:50: Future Directions in Military Strategy

With each new administration, there is opportunity for change and reform. In the new Trump Administration, reform isn’t seen as a secondary effect of a leadership change but as a requirement.What reform options should the new Pentagon leadership explore under the Trump Administration?Joining us to discuss this and related topics is Gary Anderson, Colonel, USMC (Ret.). A starting point for our conversation will be his recent article in The American Spectator, Real Military Reform Begins: Will Pete Hegseth be able to reverse our military’s decline.Gary retired as the chief of staff of the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab. He served as a special adviser to the deputy secretary of defense. He is an adjunct professor at George Washington University.SummaryIn this episode, Sal and Mark engage with Gary Anderson to discuss the current state of America's military, focusing on the need for reform and the implications of the Goldwater-Nichols Act. They explore the challenges facing the Marine Corps and Navy, the importance of revitalizing the defense industrial base, and the recent uptick in military morale and recruitment. The conversation also critiques the Force Design 2030 initiative and emphasizes the need for a more effective military education system and logistics support.TakeawaysAmerica's military has been adrift for some time.The rot in military effectiveness goes back decades.The Goldwater-Nichols Act has had unintended consequences.Careerism and ticket-punching are detrimental to military readiness.Morale among military personnel is currently high.The defense industrial base needs revitalization to keep up with adversaries.Military education has shifted focus away from essential warfighting skills.Logistics has been neglected in recent military operations.War games should not be used to validate military concepts without scrutiny.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Military Reform and Change02:35: The State of America's Military10:42: Challenges in Military Education and Careerism18:36: The Need for Honest Feedback in Military Leadership26:16: Revitalizing the Defense Industrial Base29:15: Addressing the Crisis in Submarine Maintenance32:12: Revitalizing the Fleet: Innovative Solutions for Shipbuilding36:18: The Drone Dilemma: Quality vs. Quantity in Warfare41:04: Logistics in Modern Warfare: Lessons from the Past45:17: Morale in the Military: A Shift in Attitude51:15: Leadership Changes: Navigating New Directions54:00: Accountability in Military Decisions: The Need for Integrity58:44: War Games and Military Strategy: The Importance of Honest Analysis

Many frustrated by the perceived lack of understanding of our nation’s maritime heritage requirements want new leaders with fresh ideas, unburdened by legacy entanglements. It is hoped that a younger cohort with military experience, preferably naval, in the House of Representatives and the Senate who bring to the job an additional background in business and industry will emerge to promote constructive change.Today’s guest fits the bill perfectly: the new Senator from Montana, Senator Tim Sheehy.Tim Sheehy is a father, husband, combat veteran, patriot, and an entrepreneur. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy class of 2008 with a B.S. in History, Tim completed several deployments and hundreds of missions as a US Navy SEAL Officer and Team Leader, deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and the Pacific region. Tim was honored to serve alongside many American heroes and was involved in dozens of engagements with enemy forces, earning him multiple combat decorations. Additionally, Tim completed a joint tour with Army Special Operations forces where he was privileged to complete US Army Ranger School and serve alongside the 5th Special Forces Group, 75th Ranger Regiment and other units within US Army Special Operations Command.Tim completed his active duty service as a mini submarine pilot and navigator specializing in sensitive undersea operations. After his active duty service, Tim fulfilled reserve duty as a recruiter and assessor for future naval officers. Tim was honorably discharged from the Naval Reserve in 2019.In 2014, Tim founded Belgrade-based Bridger Aerospace with all of his savings and an all-veteran team. Under his leadership, Bridger Aerospace and its sister company, Ascent Vision Technologies experienced rapid growth and created hundreds of Montana jobs. Ascent Vision Technologies was acquired by CACI in 2020, and Bridger Aerospace went public on the NASDAQ in 2023.Tim sits on the Senate Armed Services, Veterans’ Affairs, and Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.SummaryIn this conversation, Senator Tim Sheehy discusses his journey from Naval Academy graduate to U.S. Senator, emphasizing the need for a new generation of leaders in the maritime domain. He highlights the importance of revitalizing the Navy, addressing challenges in shipbuilding, and fostering bipartisan support for maritime strength. The discussion also touches on the need for innovation in naval strategy and acquisition processes, advocating for a shift in mindset towards risk-taking and adaptability in the face of modern challenges.Show LinksOperation Red WingsSix FrigatesThe Fall of KabulTakeawaysTim shares his journey from the Naval Academy to the Senate.The importance of revitalizing the Navy is highlighted.Challenges in shipbuilding and acquisition processes are discussed.Bipartisan support for maritime strength is crucial.Innovation in naval strategy is necessary for future readiness.Quantity in naval assets is as important as quality.A new shipbuilding paradigm is needed to meet modern demands.Risk-taking should be encouraged in military leadership.The Navy's historical context is essential for understanding current challenges.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Maritime Challenges and New Perspectives12:47: Senator Tim Sheehy's Journey: From Navy to Politics18:44: Revitalizing the Navy: Challenges and Opportunities24:37: Acquisition Paradigms and the Future of Naval Strategy

Dr. Sebastian Bruns, a seapower expert and maritime strategist from Kiel University, discusses NATO's evolving strategies in the Baltic Sea. He highlights the geopolitical tensions stemming from Russian activities and critiques European complacency. The conversation dives into unconventional naval challenges, including Russia's shadow fleets and missile deployments. Sebastian also emphasizes NATO's need for enhanced cooperation and the importance of integrating military data to strengthen maritime strategies, all while navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes.

SummarySal and Mark delve into the current state of the U.S. Navy, discussing the size and capabilities of the fleet, the challenges of operating as a two-ocean Navy, and the potential for utilizing alternative naval assets such as offshore supply vessels. They explore the ongoing debate between manned and unmanned aircraft. Discussed some of the lessons on how to turn around a military quickly using the transition from the 1970s malaise, to the Reagan Era victory in the Cold War. The discussion also touches on military leadership, morale, and the strategic importance of aircraft carriers in contemporary military operations.Show Links"Crash Fleet: An Emergency Shipbuilding Program”, by Lieutenant Commander Brian Adornato, USNR.German army struggles to get Gen Z recruits ‘ready for war’, by Laura Pitel.TakeawaysThe U.S. Navy's fleet size is often overestimated.The Navy operates as a two-ocean force, complicating logistics.Alternative naval assets could enhance defense capabilities.The future of naval warfare will involve a mix of manned and unmanned systems.Aircraft carriers remain a cornerstone of naval power.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Overview of the Fleet Discussion01:28: Analyzing the Current Size of the Navy05:40: Challenges of a Two-Ocean Navy07:48: Exploring Alternative Naval Platforms11:58: Possible Role of Offshore Supply Vessels14:47: Historical Context and Lessons Learned18:20: Rethinking Naval Strategy and Resources21:22: Utilizing Reserve Forces Effectively25:02: Future of Aircraft Carriers and Naval Aviation29:59: The Future of Manned vs. Unmanned Aircraft34:38: Military Resource Allocation and Strategy39:35: Generational Perspectives on Military Service in the post Vietnam recovery44:39: Leadership and Military Morale