PME, Lessons Learned, and the Joint Operational Commander

摘要

This paper purposes, that for any operational commander to be truly successful, he or she must be able to draw on the full spectrum of lessons learned available. This spectrum consists of both lessons learned from the study of military history and theory, and of lessons learned from modern operations. The paper discusses the great benefit of studying military history and theory for both the direct lessons learned to be gained, and for training the mind to think operationally. This mental agility is critical to the success of the operational commander during a campaign or crisis when faced with unexpected events. Then the paper examines the current officer professional Military Education programs of each of the armed services. The Marine Crops has the most in-depth program, followed closely by that of the Army. The Air Force program is on track, but lacks the frequency and depth of the first two. The Navy's program is found to be severely lacking in this critical area of officer professional development. Shortcomings of the war colleges are also examined. It is then recommended that all of the services reevaluate their PME programs with respect to the importance and focus placed on the study of military history and theory. The paper shows how difficult it is for current operational commanders to draw on modern lessons learned using the current Joint Universal Lessons Learned System (JULLS) database. The final section discusses the merits of establishing a National Lessons Learned Support Team (NLLST) to directly support the Joint Force Commander (JFC) in overcoming these difficulties during times of crisis.