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Sometimes, a conversation with a colleague leaves you in deep contemplation, urging a pause to reflect and think further. Our recent discussion did just that, delving into the intricate and layered concept of "lore," with a particular focus on its relevance to the United States Air Force (USAF). Lore, in its essence, is a tapestry …
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During my active duty initial stint with the USAF, I had the unique opportunity to be stationed in Germany, operating C23As out of Zweibrucken Air Base. This period offered me a fascinating perspective on the nuances of American cultural impact across Europe, encompassing both its positive and negative aspects. My tenure coincided with the momentous …
Continue reading "Strategic Culture Wars: US vs CCP—More DeMarco Banter"
After perusing the thought-provoking Newsweek article, "Americans Don’t Want to Fight for Their Country," a curious thought train chugged through my mind. Is the world's need for defense dwindling? Unlikely. But with a decreasing number of individuals keen to join the forces, what then could be the solution? My mind, perhaps too focused on old …
America’s New Map Review Years ago, I delved into Thomas P.M. Barnett's influential work, "The Pentagon's New Map," and its sequels in his initial trilogy, which include "Blueprint for Action: A Future Worth Creating" and "Great Powers: America and the World After Bush." These books left a lasting impression on me, their ideas and theories …
I have always been captivated by the enigmatic figure of Miyamoto Musashi, a legend who looms large in the annals of history. His life, marked by the intriguing duality of being a ronin - a lone wanderer without a master - and yet achieving unparalleled success, has always resonated with me. The notion of Musashi, …
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Imagine if you will—Sun Tzu, the ancient strategist known for his timeless wisdom in "The Art of War," were to witness the current strategic tussle between the United States and China. He might raise an eyebrow at the irony of modern superpowers circling each other in a high-stakes game of technological one-upmanship, seemingly echoing the …
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Mission Command has long been heralded as a transformative approach to military leadership and operations. Its principles of decentralization, empowerment, and adaptive decision-making resonate with many who envision a more agile and responsive Air Force. Yet, the concept often seems easier said than done, especially when viewed through the lens of the United States Air …
Ever since my introduction to the term "frozen middle," it has sparked my curiosity. As I ascended the ranks within the USAF, the elusive "frozen middle" always seemed to reside a level above me. Despite my efforts to champion innovative ideas as a leader, I struggled to identify any specific individual halting their progression. This …
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Whether you're a casual viewer or a die-hard fan of football, you've likely come across Modelo's advertising campaign featuring the compelling tagline: "The mark of a fighter." These ads, often showcasing individuals from various walks of life who embody resilience and perseverance, have a magnetic allure that transcends the mere selling of beer. They provoke …
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