The Foreign Area Officer Podcast - Michael Hill

#27 - COL(R) USAF Matt Yocum Apr 04, 2025

Join me for a conversation with USAF Col. (Ret.) Matt Yocum as we delve into his unique career trajectory, starting from his non-standard background in the Air Force's acquisition and engineering fields. Matt discusses his pivotal assignments, including his time in Israel as part of the Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program and later as an Air Force attaché, where he navigated through significant events like the Second Lebanon War. This episode also explores his role as a Commander's Action Group (CAG) director at CENTCOM, where he was instrumental in providing detailed and narratively rich reports on international engagements. Matt reflects on the importance of storytelling in military communication and its impact on effective diplomacy. The talk also covers his post-military career as a writer of comic books and graphic novels, highlighting his passion for the art form and his current projects, including a biographical graphic novel on a notable Pakistani figure. Throughout the episode, Matt emphasizes the significance of relationship-building, effective communication, and relentless helpfulness in both military and personal endeavors.

Links:

www.Hangar19Consulting.com

www.MattYocum.com

Closet World Kickstarter

Books:

The Twilight War by David Crist

Brief by Joe McCormick

Lawrence in Arabia by Scott Anderson

The New Map by Daniel Jurgen

Power Broker by Robert Caro

The Years of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro

The Vision by King, Waltaand Bellaire

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow by King, Evely and Lopes

Pluto: Urusawa x Tekuza by Nagasaki and Urasawa

Bone by Jeff Smith

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers

00:46 Meet Colonel Matt Yocum

01:15 Colonel Yocum’s Air Force Journey

01:59 The Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program (ESEP)

02:44 Life and Work in Israel

04:42 Challenges and Experiences in Israel

09:01 Language Learning and Cultural Insights

34:58 The Second Lebanon War

39:35 Observations and Responsibilities as an Attache

45:31 Career Transitions and Future Plans

50:37 Arrival in Amman, Jordan

50:46 The New Normal: ISIS Crisis

51:44 Embassy Life and Community

54:02 Building Relationships and Cooperation

55:19 Information Sharing and Collaboration

01:03:34 Training and Equipping the Jordanian Air Force

01:18:44 Commander's Action Group (CAG) Experience

01:37:51 Decision to Stay in CAG

01:39:06 Balancing Family and Duty

01:40:43 Returning to JSO and Preparing for Retirement

01:42:14 Final Assignment and Retirement Ceremony

01:45:37 Reflecting on a Military Career

01:47:30 Challenges and Triumphs in Promotions

01:55:37 Post-Military Career in Comics

02:02:18 The Art of Storytelling in Communication

02:14:07 Recommended Reads and Final Thoughts

#26 - FA59 COL Nathan Finney, Army Strategist Mar 21, 2025

Join me for an interview with U.S. Army Colonel Nate Finney, an Army Strategist (FA59), discussing the roles and training of FA59 strategists, their relationship with FAOs, and the importance of building interdisciplinary teams. Finney shares insights from his career, including positions at HQDA, USARPAC, and Indo-Pacific Command, highlighting the need for strategists and FAOs to collaborate effectively. The conversation also explores Finney's involvement in founding writing and strategy-oriented organizations like the Strategy Bridge and the Military Writers Guild, emphasizing writing as a critical tool for professional development. The episode concludes with a discussion on recent changes in U.S.-China relations, China's military modernization, and the strategic challenges faced by the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific region.

#25 - COL Christian Werner Mar 07, 2025

Join me for a conversation with Colonel Christian Werner, who currently serves at the U.S. Army War College. COL Werner shares his origin story of joining the Army influenced by his family's military background, his transition from Armor to FAO, and his extensive career path through various European assignments. He highlights his experiences in command and staff roles, the importance of language skills, and his impactful stint in Somalia as SDO/DATT. Werner also discusses his personal challenges, concepts like moral injury, and the importance of behavioral health. He explains the role and operations of the U.S. Military Observer Group and shares insights into SSC opportunities, language sustainment, and the rigorous BCAP/CCAP screening processes for command roles.

#24 - CAPT USCG Aaron Delano Johnson Feb 21, 2025

USCG Captain Aaron Delano Johnson is the U.S. Coast Guard Liaison Officer (CGLO) to the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) in Doral, Florida. IN this interview CAPT DJ provides detailed insights into his career, spanning multiple international deployments and engagement with various partner nations. He discusses the diverse roles and missions of the Coast Guard, including maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, drug interdiction, and international cooperation, particularly in the Caribbean and Latin America. Johnson highlights the specific challenges and interactions the Coast Guard faces in countries like Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti. He also elaborates on the Coast Guard's involvement in broader security cooperation activities, security training, and humanitarian assistance. Beyond his Coast Guard duties, Johnson serves on the board of the Foreign Area Officer Association, promoting advocacy, professional development, and networking among FAOs across different services. The episode provides a comprehensive look at the strategic importance of the Coast Guard's international role and the value of strong inter-agency and international relationships.

#23 - COL(R) Rick Cassidy Feb 07, 2025

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast, we hear from U.S. Army COL(R) Rick Cassidy. Cassidy shares a detailed account of his military career, beginning with his involvement in the ROTC program at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, and subsequent commissioning as an infantry officer in 1969. His military journey included assignments in Germany and a combat tour in Vietnam. Cassidy transitioned into the Foreign Area Officer (FAO) program in 1975, where ultimately focused on Japan. His language training included a year at DLI and the Foreign Service Institute in Yokohama, Japan. Cassidy recounts his experiences managing significant bilateral relations and intelligence collection, notably as an attache in Japan and Thailand. He closes with his post-retirement career as a defense consultant, sharing insights into the business practices and challenges in international military sales.

#22 - COL(R) Denny Lane Jan 24, 2025

This conversation with COL (R) Denny Lane covers his unexpected path to becoming a FAO, his initial appointment as a Southeast Asian desk officer at the Pentagon, and his subsequent assignments in critical geopolitical regions including Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during tumultuous times. Lane details his work on the Yellow Rain investigations, his advisory roles in the Thai and Cambodian armies, and his linguistic prowess in French, Chinese, and Thai. The dialogue also covers his later roles in Hong Kong, Beijing, and with the United Nations Border Relief Operation (UNBRO) in Thailand, where he reported on the Khmer Rouge.

#21 - LTG(R) Charles Hooper Dec 20, 2024

When I started this project, LTG(R) Charles Hooper at the top of my list of FAOs I wanted to interview. Our discussion begins with a tribute to the late Colonel Sue Ann Sandusky, detailing her pioneering career in the FAO community and her impactful service in Sub-Saharan Africa. General Hooper reflects on his personal and professional relationship with Sandusky, highlighting her fearlessness and groundbreaking achievements. The conversation then delves into Hooper’s own FAO journey, describing the development and evolution of his career, including the challenges and triumphs of being dual-tracked in the early years of the program. We touch on the historical context of U.S.-China military relations, the importance of understanding China’s strategic culture, and General Hooper’s advocacy for cross-fertilization and single-tracking in FAO careers. The episode also features discussions on the value of Pentagon assignments, strategies for effective leadership and management as a FAO, and the need for FAOs to engage in writing and contributing to the discourse on international affairs.

#20 - Lt Col (R) Duilia Mora Turner Dec 03, 2024

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer Podcast Lt Col (R) Duilia Mora Turner, the first Air Force FAO on the show, shares insights into her post-retirement work at Florida International University, where she is pursuing a Ph.D. focusing on women's leadership in Latin American militaries. The conversation delves deeply into the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) program, covering its origins, implementation, and global impact. Dui recounts her experiences developing the WPS program at SOUTHCOM, emphasizing the importance of including women's perspectives in security and defense strategies. She also discusses her background, from growing up in Brazil to her career in the U.S. Air Force, and her transition to academia. This episode sheds light on the vital role of women in peace and security initiatives and highlights Dewey's contributions to this field.

#19 - COL Jonathan and Margy Dunn Nov 15, 2024

U.S. Army Colonel Jonathan Dunn and his wife, Margy delve into Colonel Dunn's career journey from military upbringing to teaching at West Point and becoming an FAO. Margy shares her experiences balancing family life with the demands and challenges of military service, particularly as a mother of EFMP (Exceptional Family Member Program) children. The discussion covers topics such as the intricacies of the FAO training pipeline, the challenges of unaccompanied tours, and the importance of mentorship. The episode also explores the financial logistics for EFMP families, their experiences traveling with children, and the essential role of communication and support systems in making it all work.

#18 - MG(R) Jack Leide Nov 05, 2024

This episode features an in-depth interview with MG(R) Jack Leide, one of the U.S. Army's most senior Foreign Area Officers (FAOs). The conversation delves into MG Jack Leide’s extensive and multifaceted military career, including his early involvement in the Foreign Area Specialty Training (FAST) program, his work at NSA and DIA, and multiple combat deployments. MG Jack Leide discusses his specialty in China, linguistic training, and deployments, including his experience in the Dominican Republic during Operation Power Pack, multiple combat deployments to Vietnam, and his impactful role during the Tiananmen Square incident. He highlights the evolution of U.S.-China relations and offers insights into the importance of predictive analysis, language, area studies, and professional courage in military intelligence. We also cover his time as the J2 during Desert Storm and the publication of his book, "Professional Courage: My Journey in Military Intelligence Through Peace, Crisis, and War", providing a repository of lessons learned for FAOs and military leaders. You can purchase the book here: https://a.co/d/1tfl679

#17 - LCDR Alec Emmert Oct 18, 2024

LCDR Alec Emmert, US Navy Reserve FAO recounts his upbringing in Rio de Janeiro, his military career from being a submariner to serving in Bahrain and Italy, and his subsequent transition to the private sector with firms like Booz Allen Hamilton and McKinsey. He elaborates on his discovery of the Reserve FAO career path, the requisite qualifications, and the significance of language skills and regional expertise. He is also the CEO of Service to School, aiding veterans in transitioning to college. Join us as we discuss the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and leveraging networks for growth within the FAO community.

#16 - The 5 FAO Truths - COL(R) Mike Burgoyne & LTC(R) Jim Marckwardt Oct 04, 2024

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer we delve into the critical role of Foreign Area Officers (FAOs) with COL(R) Mike Burgoyne and LTC(R) Jim Marckwardt. Mike and Jim discuss their recent article ‘Five Foreign Area Officer Truths,’ published in Joint Forces Quarterly. Below are the 5 Truths, listen in to hear more.

1.⁠ ⁠FAOs Are Most Effective in the Gray Zone Between Peace and War

2.⁠ ⁠Networks Cannot Be Built After a Crisis Begins

3.⁠ ⁠FAOs Are Regional Experts, Not Generalists

4.⁠ ⁠Language and Culture Provide FAOs’ Unique Access

5. FAOs Are Raised by their Services but Operate in Joint and Interagency World

#15 - MAJ Mike White Sep 20, 2024

Major Mike White, Persian instructor at West Point, shares his journey with the U.S. Army, starting from his enlistment in 2002 to becoming a Foreign Area Officer (FAO). Major White elaborates on his experiences learning Dari at the Defense Language Institute, the significance of cultural immersion, and his deployments in Afghanistan and Nepal, where he navigated complex relationships and critical missions. He also underscores the value of writing skills, adaptability, and family resilience. The narrative highlights the power of networking within the FAO community, recounting personal anecdotes on how these connections have supported successful operations, including during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Major White reflects on his storied career and future plans to continue contributing to the community, leveraging his language skills and cultural expertise.

#14 - BG Brad Nicholson Sep 06, 2024

In this episode of The Foreign Area Officer Podcast, Brigadier General Brad Nicholson from the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama provides in-depth insights into the challenges and rewards of serving as a FAO, discusses the importance of mentorship, and offers guidance on navigating assignments, including dealing with the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) challenges. The conversation also explores the evolving role of FAOs in global security contexts and the exciting future ahead for the FAO community.

#13 - LTC(P) David Bradley Aug 26, 2024

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer podcast, I sit down with LTC(P) David Bradley, former Chinese instructor at the United States Military Academy, to explore the intricate dynamics of China's relationships and ambitions. We delve into the one China policy, the complex history and current situations in Hong Kong and Taiwan, and the broader security environment in Eastern Asia. Gain insights into U.S. foreign policy, military strategy, and the crucial role of foreign area officers in navigating the challenging geopolitical landscape posed by China’s actions and strategies. This episode provides valuable insights for comprehending global diplomatic and economic interactions involving China.

#12 - LTC Will Hogan Aug 09, 2024

Currently serving as the HQDA LNO to the French Army, LTC William Hogan, shares his unique experiences in language learning, IRT in Brazil, the interagency dynamics from Afghanistan to Haiti, and the political challenges as Army Attaché in Mexico and Nicaragua. Hogan reflects on his father's history in WWII as America's youngest tank battalion commander and the importance of preserving military records, which he captures in his recent book Task Force Hogan: The World War II Tank Battalion That Spearheaded the Liberation of Europe.The discussion highlights the complexities and adaptability required in various international assignments, cultural sensitivity, and the importance of interdepartmental and multinational cooperation.

#11 - BG Richard and Teri Quirk Jul 26, 2024

Is there a path to General Officer for U.S. Army FAOs? In this episode Brigadier General Richard Quirk and his wife Teri explore both professional and personal aspects of FAO careers in the Middle East and North Africa. BG Quirk delves into his journey through the FAO Corps, emphasizing the significance of writing skills, maintaining ethical standards, and transitioning into higher ranks. Teri shares her perspectives on balancing family life with the demands of FAO assignments and her experience working as Community Liaison Officer at the embassy. Join us as we talk about the unique career challenges and responsibilities of FAOs, the importance of adaptability, and the ethical standards they maintain. This episode also explores the dynamics of FAO family life, the challenges of raising children internationally, and the significance of a positive mindset. Essential listening for current FAOs and those considering an international military career. 01:28 Journey to Becoming a FAO 03:47 Choosing the Middle East Pre-9/11 04:36 Impact of 9/11 on FAO Career 05:44 Experiences in the Middle East 06:54 Perceptions of America in the Middle East 13:19 Living and Learning in Tunisia 18:02 Transition to Paris and AFRICOM 20:16 Challenges of Standing Up AFRICOM 26:21 Importance of Writing Skills for FAOs 32:14 First Country Team Assignment in Jordan 32:30 Teri's Role as Community Liaison Officer 35:48 Navigating Embassy Life and Housing 38:26 Ethics and Humility in FAO Career 46:29 General Officer Steering Committee (GOSC) 47:49 FAO Training and Career Progression 48:19 Collaborative Efforts and Key Allies 49:42 Current Focus Areas of the GOSC 49:52 Reviewing the FAO Training Pipeline 52:26 Alignment with National Defense Strategies 53:10 Opportunities for FAO Research 54:24 MEL 4 Pilot Program and Training Flexibility 55:26 Balancing Training Objectives and Resources 57:10 NDS Specific Challenges and Regional Specialization 01:01:19 The Role of FAOs in Counteracting Malign Influence 01:04:03 Communicating GOSC Objectives to the FAO Community 01:09:33 Transitioning from Colonel to General Officer 01:18:23 Supporting FAO Families and Spouses 01:28:35 Final Thoughts and Parting Message

#10 - MAJ Sergio Salazar Jun 28, 2024

In this episode of The Foreign Area Officer Podcast, Major Sergio Salazar recounts his journey from Puerto Rico to becoming a Spanish instructor at the United States Military Academy. He reflects on his early life, influenced by his brothers and a USMC father, his ambitions in law enforcement and mixed martial arts, and his eventual career in the Army. Major Salazar discusses his extensive deployments in Europe, participation in military exercises such as Atlantic Resolve and Cobra Gold, and his path to becoming a Foreign Area Officer (FAO). We also discuss West Point's foreign language program and Projects Day, emphasizing the inclusion of security cooperation-focused projects and international collaborations, and the crucial role of cultural and linguistic expertise in military operations.

#9 - COL(R) Brian and Anna Linvill Jun 14, 2024

Is your FAO family prepared to evacuate?

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer podcast, @Anna and COL(R) @Brian Linville, reflect on their extensive experiences and challenges as a FAO family in Libya during the Arab Spring. Brian details his military background and transition to FAO while Anna shares her journey from U.S. Air Force linguist to musician and FAO spouse, culminating in the publication of her book “Broadway in Benghazi.” They discuss relationship-building, the importance of cultural immersion, and evacuation during the Libyan Revolution. The episode also touches on the loss of Ambassador Chris Stevens and the importance of FAOs documenting their experiences for posterity and the community.

Broadway in Benghazi details Anna’s personal and family life as an Airwoman, Musician, and FAO spouse. It is an incredibly candid and personal account of life Anna’s and family leading up to the Arab Spring in Libya. It is available in hardback, paperback and digital. To purchase a copy, visit www.annalinvill.com or https://www.amazon.com/Broadway-Benghazi-Tragedy-Diplomatic-Gaddafis/dp/B0CTBH53RR/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1S24U1CLV64GE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.kpmpGxd8EjeIlmUWKtnw6G6i4mstig2eNh10JDf5A_fGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.LjtjCyBpLhUy71VsZd6cK4DK-RhIXM9yvdf9E4qmT5I&dib_tag=se&keywords=broadway+in+benghazi&qid=1718324826&sprefix=broadway+in+ben%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-1

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer

00:42 Meet Anna and Brian Linville

01:04 Brian's Journey to Becoming a FAO

07:12 Anna's Unique Path to the Military

09:53 The Importance of Language Skills

14:23 The Role of FAO Spouses

16:49 Adventures and Challenges of Military Life

25:50 Anna's Musical Journey

32:32 Building Relationships in Libya

36:49 The Strategic Value of Relationships

46:06 Building Crucial Relationships

47:05 Unexpected Allies in the Revolution

49:00 Theater and Political Satire

51:58 The Revolution's Dark Turn

54:58 A Shift to Peace Activism

01:01:29 Writing 'Broadway in Benghazi'

01:05:37 Diplomatic Life and Personal Stories

01:11:56 Preparing for Libya

01:14:46 A Detainment Story

01:25:30 Post-Detention Reflections

01:26:03 The Importance of JMAS Training

01:27:22 Evacuation from Libya Begins

01:28:43 Tensions and Preparations

01:29:44 The Uprising and Its Impact

01:34:10 Evacuation Attempts and Challenges

01:37:25 Final Departure and Reflections

01:45:15 Tribute to Chris Stevens

01:50:23 Closing Thoughts and Book Promotion

#8 - CSM(R) Randy Surles May 31, 2024

Why isn't there a dedicated FAO career field for Army NCOs?

From Military Leadership to Literary Success: Randy Surles's Journey and Vital Tips for Retirees

In this compelling episode, retired Command Sergeant Major Randy Surles delves into his military career working with foreign partners, including his role in a nascent FAO NCO program and missions in South America and Africa. We also explore Randy's post-retirement journey as a book coach and editor, highlighting his efforts to guide others in transforming their ideas into published works. He provides invaluable advice on navigating VA and TRICARE benefits, especially for those planning to reside overseas, and shares the significance of early preparation for a smooth transition to civilian life. Randy also shares practical tips for integrating healthcare benefits and personalized guidance on military retirement and literary pursuits.

#7 - LTC Pete Roongsang May 17, 2024

In this episode of the Foreign Area Officer podcast, Lieutenant Colonel Pete Roongsang, provides a deep dive into the life, career, and insights of a seasoned Foreign Area Officer (FAO). LTC Roongsang shares his journey from his first assignment in Timor Leste to significant roles in Thailand and the Pentagon, highlighting key lessons and experiences gained along the way. The conversation also covers the evolving landscape of FAO assignments, the strategic importance of FAOs within the U.S. Army and Department of Defense, and the critical values that guide an FAO's career. Additionally, LTC Roongsang, currently serving as the FAO Branch Chief, discusses new initiatives and changes within the FAO program and offers valuable advice to FAOs for professional development and personal conduct.

00:00 Introduction to the Foreign Area Officer Podcast

00:50 Guest Introduction: LTC Pete Roongsang

01:23 First FAO Assignment: Chief of Defense Cooperation in Timor Leste

03:33 Collaboration and Impact in Timor Leste

08:01 Working with International Partners

10:27 Developing East Timor's Defense Capabilities

18:39 Transition to Thailand: A Personal and Professional Journey

19:29 FAO Career Path: From West Point to Thailand

29:36 Strengthening U.S.-Thai Defense Alliance

35:38 The Power of Interagency Collaboration

39:37 The Importance of Communication Channels in Security Cooperation

40:28 Transitioning to Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Policy Work

41:33 The Unique Value FAOs Bring to OSD Policy

45:26 Challenges and Strategies for FAOs in Civilian Institutions

47:53 The Role and Impact of the FAO Branch Chief

51:23 Evolving FAO Assignments and the Introduction of DSCS

01:03:12 Optimizing the FAO Training Pipeline and Career Management

01:06:09 Final Thoughts and Advice for FAOs

#6 - COL(R) John Haseman May 03, 2024

COL(R) John Haseman is a member of the DIA Defense Attaché Service Hall of Fame and a specialist in southeast asian political-military affairs. He served in Vietnam as a military intelligence officer and district-level advisor and is one of very few Military Intelligence officers to earn the Combat Infantryman Badge. His Vietnam service led him into the Foreign Area Officer program where he served overseas tours in Indonesia, Burma and Thailand. A prolific writer, COL Haseman is the editor of the Foreign Area Officer Association Journal of International Affairs.

Check out his books!

In the Mouth of the Dragon: Memoir of a District Advisor in the Making Delta, 1971-1973. https://a.co/d/diqKv6m

The Thai Resistance Movement During World War II https://a.co/d/267J172

#5 - LTC Jason Morales Apr 19, 2024

Lieutenant Colonel Jason Morales was raised in Naranjito on the island of Puerto Rico and has been an Engineer Officer, Special Forces Officer, and finally a foreign area officer during his military career, now serving in Office of Defense Coordination in Mexico City. Jason served previous tours in Mexico, Colombia, El Salvador, and as an army inter-agency fellow at the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

#4 - MAJ Neil Law Apr 05, 2024

MAJ Neil Law is a native of Queens, New York, Neil currently serves as a U.S. Army foreign area officer in Port-au-Prince Haiti. He received his commission as a transportation officer from SUNY Albany, and completed two deployments to Afghanistan before assessing into the FAO career field and completing in-region training in Mexico City. He is fluent in Chinese Mandarin, Chinese Cantonese and Spanish.

#3 - LTCs Alex and Emma Schade Mar 22, 2024

Emma Shade is a U. S. Army Signal Officer from Georgia. She currently serves as Desk Officer at the Defense Intelligence Agency covering Sub Saharan Africa. Emma speaks French and Arabic, which she used in her assignments in N'Djamena Chad as the Chief of the Office of Security Cooperation and at SETAF-AF in Vicenza, Italy as the Sub Saharan Africa Desk Officer. She completed her IRT at the U. S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Alex Shade is from Ridgewood, New Jersey. A graduate of the Citadel Military College, he commissioned as a U.S. Army Armor Officer, where he served for two years before transitioning to Military Intelligence. An Arabic and German speaker, he currently serves on the Joint Staff J5 on the Israel Desk. Previous assignments include Army Attaché in N'Djamena, Chad, including nine months as Acting SDO/DATT, North Africa Desk Officer at SETAF-AF in Vicenza, Italy, and he completed his IRT at U. S. Embassy in Rabat, Morocco.

#2 - MAJ Matt and Dr. Madi Saunders Mar 08, 2024

MAJ Matt Saunders is an infantry officer at Latin America. Pharaoh currently earning his master's degree at the Harvard Kennedy school of government. He is a Spanish speaker and completed his IRT at us embassy, Mexico city.

Dr. Madison Saunders is a practicing clinical audiologist. She earned her bachelor's of arts in communication, sciences, and disorders from LSU in 2012. And her doctorate of audiology from the university of Kansas medical center in 2017.

#1 - LTC Wes Chaney Feb 23, 2024

Lieutenant Colonel Wes Chaney is an infantry officer who currently serves as the Director for CENTCOM Regional Operations at the United States Army Security Assistance Command. In previous assignments has served as the Foreign Area Officer Branch Chief, SDO/DATT in Côte d’Ivoire and in Djibouti as the Chief of the Security Cooperation Office. He also served assignments at the Army G-3/5/7 and in the U.S. Army’s Africa and Southern European Task force. Lieutenant Colonel Chaney is married and is the proud father of two children.

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