Strategic Communication and the Combatant Commander
Abstract
It is important to emphasize the indispensable role that combatant commanders play in strategic communication (SC), which includes the coordination of statecraft, public affairs (PA), public diplomacy, military information operations, and other actions through which we engage and influence key global communities. Given the current negative assessment of U.S. efforts in this arena, a concurrent, balanced, and collaborative effort is required. Combatant commanders and their staffs, as well as deployed forces, are important instruments of influence. They are "current" in terms of what might have resonance and what will not. They have built personal relations and are unparalleled conduits of influence in virtually every country. These commanders realize that every member of their commands who interacts with any international audience, no matter how large or small, is their most important strategic communicator at that moment and location. This article explores the role of the combatant commander as a central conduit for, contributor to, and implementer of U.S. Government strategic communication. It also examines the concept of the "Influence Cycle" and presents a series of focused recommendations for the improvement of this critical national security function.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA515469
Entities
People
- Daniel Burgess
- Daniel T. Kuehl
- Jeffrey B. Jones
- Russell Rochte
Organizations
- National Defense University