Training the MEU(SOC) ACE Commander: Making a MAGTF Officer
Abstract
The Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)) is an integral part of the National Security and Military Strategies of the United States, and its use has greatly increased over the past few years, not only unilaterally, but also in the Joint and Multinational arena. The Aviation Combat Element (ACE) is an integral part of the MEU(SOC), and it provides a myriad of detachments and capabilities to the MEU(SOC). The ACE Commander is therefore required to maintain extensive knowledge and understanding of ACE assets and employment considerations in unilateral, joint and multinational operations. The current process for training a MEU(SOC) ACE Commander is extremely limited, and relies mostly on previous experience the ACE Commander has gained. There are a variety of forums available that can provide valuable training for future ACE Commanders, ranging from the MEU(SOC)/SPMAGTF ACE Commander's Course, the Tactical Air Commander's Course, and MEU/ACE Training Course to the MAGTF Staff Training Program, Wing Battlestaff training, and the Air Ground Operations School. These forums and training programs all provide certain aspects that are useful toward training an ACE Commander; however, they do not provide a consolidated, focused means of training, nor are they effectively utilized. The ACE Commander requires training that assists him in achieving not just the ACE missions, but the MEU(SOC) missions as well. A training course can be developed that will assist the ACE Commander in leading the ACE. The training should augment the commander's individual experience, and should be used in addition to a fleet up process. Emphasis should be placed on developing an ACE Commander that is a MAGTF Officer. The training should not be a consolidation of those courses already available, but a course constructed specifically toward training the MEU(SOC) ACE Commander.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA529536
Entities
People
- Timothy A. Herndon
Organizations
- Marine Corps University