Commandant of the Marine Corps speaks at Air War College

  • Published
  • By Capt. Teresa L. Sullivan
  • Air War College
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. - --  Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos spoke with Air War College students about the Corps' progress in Afghanistan, the emerging global security environment, and relationship-building in the Asia-Pacific region Tuesday as part of his visit to Air University.

During his remarks, the commandant spoke about the Marine Corps' role in America's drawdown in Afghanistan and the progress being made in the Helmand Region.

"When we finally leave, we will have set conditions as good as we possibly can so Afghanistan will have the greatest opportunity for success," said Amos. "The success will be theirs for the taking."

He conveyed his confidence in the joint and coalition force's efforts in the Helmand Region and the progress of the Afghanistan National Army.

After that, the general described the emerging security environment and challenges around the world, such as competition for resources, natural disasters, social unrest, weapons of mass destruction and extremism to name a few. He explained how these types of factors will weigh heavily on resource allocation.
"Here's where the U.S. military and our allies will go to work," he explained. "These are the types of things we think of when we start to think about resource allocation."

Amos rounded out his discussion by addressing the current strategic focus on the Asia-Pacific region and the importance in developing relationships and building confidences in and around the region.

He concluded his remarks by thanking everyone in attendance for their service.

"Thank you to all joint and coalition service members in the room today. The relationships you build while you're at the Air War College will be one of the most important things you take away in your career," said Amos. "To the civilians and agency folks in the room, thank you for serving your nation. I'm truly grateful for all of you and for your service."

The commandant had lunch with Marine Corps officers from Air Command and Staff College, the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, and the Air War College, and concluded his visit by delivering remarks at the Joint Flag Officers' Warfighting Course. Amos is the 35th commandant of the Marine Corps and has held command at all levels from lieutenant colonel to lieutenant general.