Plans, Policies & Operations (PP&O)

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

11 updates today

a.  FY13 FAO/RAO slate update

b.  FY13 1st Quarter FAO/RAO experience track board

c.  MARCENT request for ME/NA - Arabic speaking FAO/FAS support

d.  What has a RAO done for me lately: Australia MRF

e.  What has a FAO done for me lately: Mexico JODC

f.  What has a FAO done for me lately: published a book

g.  EUCOM/SACEUR comments on language needs in DoD

h.  Johns Hopkins 2nd Hertog Summer Study Program - China

i.  Civil Affairs Roundtable - Foreign Area Engagement Teaming

j.  I MEF FAO/RAO PME

k.  Annual FAO Report

a.  FY13 FAO/RAO slate update:

52 FAOs/RAOs have been recommended for FAO/RAO billets this summer.

The monitors at MMOA have taken results from promotion, career designation, SERB, school, and special assignment lists, and are balancing those against retirements/seperations, PCS guidance and needs of each occfield as they chew through the recommended slate.  Each move has 2nd + 3rd order effects.  It's my intention to publish the results in a MARADMIN as soon as they are available.  Many orders are being funded and cut as short as 4-months prior to PCS due to budget constraints.  For those who need updates on future assignments before I have the 100% solution to publish, feel free to contact your monitor.  MMOA is shooting for confirmation of assignments by end of Feb.

b.  FY13 1st Quarter FAO/RAO experience track board:

MARADMIN 077/13 was released today with official results from our latest Quarterly FAO/RAO experience track board.

http://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/MessagesDisplay/tabid/13286/Article/138130/fy13-1st-quarter-international-affairs-program-iap-experience-track-selection-p.aspx

7 FAOs + 5 RAOs were designated.  Please welcome to the FAO/RAO community:

    Name                       PMOS/AMOS   Region       Note: 

1.  Capt  Emre Albayrak       (0203/8247)  W.Eur  FAO   Turkish

2.  Maj   David Bann          (0302/8224)  ME/NA  RAO   Hebrew

3.  Maj   Luke Esposito       (7509/8247)  W.Eur  FAO*  Spanish, PEP

4.  Maj   Jose Fuentes        (7566/8241)  LATAM  FAO*  Spanish, Portuguese

5.  Capt  Yves Geoffrey       (0802/8245)  Africa FAO   Swahili, French

6.  Capt  David Keltner       (0302/8224)  ME/NA  RAO   Arabic

7.  Maj   John Kolb           (7202/8243)  N.E.Asia FAO Korean, FPME

8.  Maj   Constantinos Koutsoukos (7557/8247) W.Eur FAO Greek, Italian

9.  1stLt Jeffrey Randall     (0802/8241)  LATAM  FAO   Spanish

10. LtCol Leland Suttee       (0802/8228)  S.E.Asia RAO Australia FPME, USAID

11. Maj   Justin Wilhelmsen   (1803/8221)  LATAM  RAO   Spanish

12. Capt  Stanley Wisniewski  (0402/8224)  ME/NA  RAO  

* pending constructive credit waiver

c.  MARCENT request for ME/NA - Arabic speaking FAO/FAS support:

Who:    ~7 Arabic speakers (FAOs + FASs)

What:   support MARCENT TSC Exercise EAGER LION

Where:  Jordan

When:   9-20 Jun, 2013

Why:    augment MEU with LREC skills in support of CENTCOM priority/premier event

Details: 3 of 7 assigned to SECFOR.  4 of 7 assigned to Dep MARCENT Commander + Staff.

Limited funding assistance available from MARCENT. 

Field conditions with MARCENT (FWD) in ground ops of JTF HQ.

Partner nations participating in EAGER LION include Jordan, Saudi, and UK.

POC:  Mr. Jeff Hibbard, Chief, MARCENT G-5 Exercises jeffrey.hibbard.civ@marcent.usmc.mil / 813-827-7036.

d.  What has a RAO done for me lately: Australia MRF

Who:    Capt Francisco Vega, Asia RAO

What:   OpsO to 1st Forward Coordination Element (FCE) of 1st Marine Rotational Force-Darwin

Where:  Darwin, Australia

When:   03Apr-25Sep 2012

Why:    Combination of PMOS + RAO skills made him the best choice to serve in high visibility role on MRF-Darwin staff during strategic movement of Marines to Australia.  AAR (attached) highlights the operational impact of FAO/RAO education and skill sets.

e.  What has a FAO done for me lately: Mexico JODC:

Who:   4 LATAM FAOs

         LtCol William Fearn, Maj Paul Sotomayor, Capt Armando Daviu and Capt Callon Nichols

What:  FAO support to MEXMAR Junior Officer Development Course (JODC)

Where: MCRD-San Diego + Camp Pendleton

When:  26Nov-15Dec 2012

Why:   Support MARFORNORTH + MCSCG efforts to build partner capacity + maintain mil-mil relationships with Mexican Marine Corps (MEXMAR).  FAO support to major event with NORTHCOM priority country.

See MEXMAR JODC AAR for details.

f.  What has a FAO done for me lately: published a book

Who:   Maj Peter Munson, ME/NA FAO

What:  War, Welfare & Democracy: Rethinking America's Quest for the End of History

Where: MARCENT

When:  after hours

Why:   thinking a lot.  Needed an outlet.  Always wanted to write another thesis.

Review of book in Time Magazine - http://nation.time.com/2013/01/22/wealth-is-flowing-from-west-to-east.  Great job.

g.  EUCOM/SACEUR comments on language needs in DoD:

Who:   ADM Stavridis, EUCOM/SACEUR

What:  public comments on building a culturally savvy, multi-lingual military

Where: Stars & Stipes

       From the Bridge blog

When:  5Feb2013

http://www.stripes.com/news/in-blog-stavridis-pushes-for-multilingual-us-military-officers-1.206592

h.  Johns Hopkins 2nd Hertog Summer Study Program - China:

Who:   N.E.Asia/China FAO/RAO

What:  Opportunity to attend Johns Hopkins SAIS 2nd Hertog Summer Study Program

       Study of Long-term Competition in Asia, China as a Strategic Actor, and U.S. Strategies

Where: La Jolla, CA

When:  11-21 Aug 2013

       15 Mar = application deadline

Why:   Current updates on China; supports strategic pivot to Asia; lifelong learning opportunity

Details:  travel to/from San Diego at own expense.  Food/lodging/tuition covered on-site.

POC:  Program Assistant, Ms. Qivon Annan qannan1@jhu.edu / (202) 663-5911

      www.merrillcenter.sais-jhu.edu 

Mission of promoting excellence in the teaching of strategic studies.  The Summer Study will take place in a small seminar environment (approximately thirty attendees in total) and is by invitation only. It will be composed of a mixture of young scholars and practitioners as well as established scholars and current and former government leaders.

The first portion of the summer study will include lectures, panel discussions, and roundtables on strategy, the Asian security environment, and China as a strategic actor. During the second portion of the summer study, participants will be divided into teams to develop alternative strategies for preserving American interests in the growing Chinese political influence and military power and examine how the United States can exploit its enduring strengths against China's enduring weaknesses. These teams will then game out their strategies in a two-day interactive simulation that will help them think strategically about the topic. They will revise their strategies based on the results of the simulation. In the final portion of the summer study, the participants will reassemble as a single group for an intensive, structured discussion of the Sino-American strategic competition, leading a set of findings and recommendations. The summer study will conclude with a briefing of results to, and feedback from, a group of senior and former policy makers and scholars.  See website for application details.

LtCol Ivan Kanapathy attended 2012 Hertog Summer Study. ivan.kanapathy@usmc.mil. 

i.  Civil Affairs Roundtable - Foreign Area Engagement Teaming:

Who:    anyone interested

What:   18th Civil Affairs Roundtable on Foreign Area Engagement Teaming

Where:  George Mason University

        Founders Hall, room 134

        3351 Fairfax Dr.

        Arlington, VA 22201

When:   Fri, 22 March 2013

        0800-1530

Why:    Security cooperation increasingly predominates the steady state of U.S. foreign and security engagements.  Complex and comprehensive challenges in the face of limited resources call for a greater teaming approach that brings together disparate capabilities along political-military, civil-military, interagency, public-private, and international lines.

This Roundtable takes a look at how country teams may better leverage Active and Reserve Civil Affairs, Foreign Area Officers, and other military capabilities in support of whole-of-government efforts to bring peace, stability, and security to partner nations and regions. The aim is to open an ongoing dialogue among represented organizations on this critical coordination need.

Key speakers and panelists will be from the U.S. State Department, the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Office of the Secretary of Defense and other Defense agencies and commands, as well as the U.S. Institute of Peace, United Nations, and the Alliance for Peacebuilding.

A detailed agenda will be posted at our website in late February. Registration information is forthcoming.  http://www.faoa.org

POC:  Mr. Jon Dunn, FAOA Vice President, admin@faoa.org

j.  I MEF FAO/RAO PME:

Who:   FAOs/RAOs + FASs/RASs in I MEF

What:  PME

Where: Camp Pendleton Golf Course, Eagle's Landing

When:  Fri, 1 March 1500

Why:   Quarterly PME series & local FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS community building.

Col Steve Hanson (LATAM FAO) will discuss the political-military situation in Argentina, an overview of the FPME curriculum at la Escuela de Defensa Nacional and life in Argentina in general, followed by Q&A.

k.  Annual FAO Report:

The FY12 Annual FAO report is posted on the IAP website in the "hip pocket briefs" link.

http://www.hqmc.marines.mil/ppo/Units/StrategyandPlansDivision(PL)/InternationalAffairsBranch(PLU)/InternationalAffairsPrograms/HipPocketBriefs.aspx

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

3 updates today

a.  FY13 study track FAOs + RAOs

b.  SECNAV Instruction 1301.7

c.  Joint Personnel Recovery Agency (JPRA) opportunity

a.  FY13 study track FAOs + RAOs:

MARADMIN 047/13 was released 24Jan with CCLEB results.

http://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/MessagesDisplay/tabid/13286/Article/137118/fiscal-year-fy-13-commandants-career-level-education-board-ccleb-slating-results.aspx

MARADMIN 048/13 was released 5 minutes later with CPIB results.

http://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/MessagesDisplay/tabid/13286/Article/137122/fiscal-year-fy-13-commandants-professional-intermediate-level-education-board-c.aspx

From the Commandant’s Career-Level Education Board (CCLEB) and Commandant’s Professional Intermediate-level education Board (CPIB), 30 FAOs and 10 RAOs were slated. 

6 of 9 Olmsted Scholar candidates will become FAOs.

9 of 12 FPME will become FAOs; 3 of 12 will become RAOs.

Please welcome to the FAO/RAO Community:

    (1) FORIGEN AREA OFFICER

Maj   Zachariah Anthony  (7523)  E. Europe/Turkish

Capt  Michelle Augustine (7208)  LATAM/Spanish

1stLt Benjamin Baker     (0206)  ME/NA/Arabic

1stLt Mark Brokaw        (0802)  N.E. Asia/Korean

Capt  Michael Clark      (7525)  S.S. Africa/French

Capt  Robin Fonseca      (6002)  S.S. Africa/French

Capt  Reese Johnson      (0180)  LATAM/Portuguese

Capt  Ryan Morgan        (7562)  S. Asia/Hindi

Capt  Ross Norman        (3002)  N.E. Asia/Chinese

Capt  Yuliya Omarov      (0402)  Eurasia/Russian

1stLt John Powell        (0302)  ME/NA/Farsi

1stLt Johnathon Rice     (0206)  S.E. Asia/Tagalog

Capt  Joseph Sweat       (7557)  ME/NA/Arabic

Capt  Matthew Wartenbe   (0204)  S. Asia/Urdu

Capt  Alex Woodward      (0207)  N.E. Asia/Chinese

    (2) REGIONAL AFFAIRS OFFICER

Capt  Michelle Avila     (0402)  Africa

Capt  Andre Karpowich    (7562)  Eurasia

Maj   David Lancaster    (0602)  W. Europe

Capt  Patrick Lavoie     (0302)  ME/NA

Capt  Luis Mejia         (0602)  N.E. Asia

Capt  Dustin Rowland     (3002)  S.E. Asia

Maj   Temi Songonuga     (3002)  Africa

    (3) OLMSTED SCHOLAR CANDIDATES

Capt  James Armstrong    (0302) 

Capt  Theodore Ehlert    (1802)

Capt  Alexander George   (0302)

Capt  Zachary Jones      (7562)

1stLt Ruth Kelty         (1302)

Capt  Chad Summerville   (0202)

Capt  Bering Tsang       (0202)

Capt  Michael Walls      (0802)

Capt  Stanley Zivanovich (0802)

    (4) FOREIGN PME

Maj   Christopher Kinsey (6002)  Australia C&S

Maj   Christopher Boese  (7525)  Brazil C&S

Maj   Andrew Graham      (7563)  Canadian C&S

Capt  George Fleming     (7565)  French C&S

Maj   Michael Long       (0180)  Japan C&S

Maj   Thomas Smolensky   (7523)  Japan C&S

Maj   Gregory Swarthout  (7566)  Japan C&S

Capt  Steven Pederson    (0602)  Korean C&S

Maj   Greer Chambless    (7509)  Norwegian C&S

Maj   Joseph McAlarnen   (7565)  Spanish C&S

Maj   Jay Lappe          (0302)  UK C&S

Maj   Jesus Chapagarcia  (7523)  Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHINSEC)

b.  SECNAV Instruction 1301.7:

Secretary Mabus signed SECNAV Instruction 1301.7 on Wednesday, 23 Jan, prescribing policy and guidance on Department of the Navy FAO programs. 

The FAO/RAO community helps DoD achieve national security objectives with an expanding number of coalition partners in a diverse set of geopolitical conditions around the world.  Success on asymmetric battlefields of the future requires specialized officers with a sophisticated understanding of the international security environment.  FAOs provide critical war fighting capabilities to influence plans and operations, build and strengthen international partnerships, and serve as key enablers for joint, maritime and expeditionary forces.

c.  Joint Personnel Recovery Agency (JPRA) opportunity

Who:   Reserve or Civilian FAOs/RAOs

What:  Develop Joint PR doctrine and TTPs for 'whole of government' PR operations

       Full-time or Part-time work opportunity for civilian or reserve FAO/RAO, preferably with embassy experience

Where: Ft Belvoir, VA

When:  1 Mar 2013 start date

       27 Jan 2013 application deadline

       28 month project

Why:  

Background:  Bevilaqua Research Corp (www.brc2.com) is working on a proposal for a 28 month Joint Test and Evaluation designed to write and test doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) for personnel recovery (PR) in inter-agency environments. Current DoD PR doctrine is combat focused, that is it is designed for a theater or location where DoD is the lead entity. However, in 190 of 191 foreign countries where US personnel are located, the Chief of Mission (COM) is “in charge.”  We will be tasked to assist the Joint Personnel Recovery Agency (JPRA) to develop joint PR doctrine and TTPs that stress a “whole of government approach” to PR operations.  These TTPs will be written to be used in areas where COM is in charge. We will be working hand-in-hand with DoS country teams. Once we have the TTP drafts, we will run two “test” exercises with about 12 embassies, the Geographic Combatant Commands and the JPRA to validate the TTP. Our travel schedule may take us to embassies in Asia, Europe, Africa, Central and South America, Canada and Mexico. Salary/Benefits: TBD (but the pay is good).

Start date (if contract awarded): 1 Mar 2013

POC:  Mr. Steve Chill stephen.chill7@gmail.com / 703 881 2680

Ladies, gents,

6 updates today:

a.  FY13 Language sustainment funding

b.  FAOweb

c.  What has a FAO done for me lately:  China

d.  What has a RAO done for me lately:  Burma

e.  Defense Language Corps

f.  University of Indiana summer language workshops

a.  FY13 language sustainment funding:

Defense Language & National Security Education Office (DLNSEO) has made a substantial chunk of language sustainment funds available to the FAO community to help keep our language skills sharp.  Our community represents the Language, Regional Expertise, and Culture (LREC) professionals in DoD and USMC.  The DoD Foreign Language Proficiency report to Congress in FY11 identified 7.92% of the Total Force with any foreign language proficiency; including self-assessed.  The attached info paper + sample request identify how to apply for funding to support language tuition, regional TAD, tutoring, and/or local language school.  There are 8 months left in FY13; start putting plans together for improving language proficiency. 

b.  FAOweb:

FAOweb was turned-off the week before Christmas. 

FAOweb is back on-line as of Monday, this week.  That includes funding for the Joint FAO courses, Economist, STRATFOR, the language tools made available to us at no cost, Joint FAO chatrooms, etc.  I encourage you to take a look at the new format. 

More details about Joint FAO courses will be released in the near future.

NPS + Navy + DLNSEO are working to keep the LATAM course alive for early next month.

On-line resources available to Marine Corps FAOs include:

   (1)  Transparent Language CL-150

   (2)  Global Language Online Support System (GLOSS)  

        http://gloss.dliflc.edu/Default.aspx

   (3)  LangNet http://www.langnet.org  

   (4)  Transparent Language CL-150

   (5)  Tactical Language Training Systems (TLTS)

   (6)  Broadband Language Training System (BLTS)

   (7)  Special Operations Forces language Training on-line (SOFTS) 

        www.softsonline.org

   (8)  SCOLA  http://www.scola.org/Scola/Default.aspx 

   (9)  Joint Language University (JLU) Online

        www.jlu.wbtrain.com

   (10) Rosetta Stone

For access questions, contact Brian Boulware bgboulwa@nps.edu / (831) 656-1080

c.  What has a FAO done for me lately:  China

Who:   Maj Anna Voyne (China FAO)

What:  FAO support for SECNAV visit to China

Where: Beijing + Ningbo, China

When:  26-30 Nov 2012

Why:   support to USDAO during SECNAV visit. 

Details:  an ICT FAO helped plan/coordinate a high visibility SECNAV visit to China.  While helping the U.S. Embassy and DAO team, Maj Voyne made an impact on a successful visit, which included discussion with PLAN leaders and multiple PLAN ship visits.  An AAR is attached with releasable details.

d.  What has a RAO done for me lately:  Burma

Who:   Maj Roberto Ibarra

What:  RAO support for GO visit to Burma

Where: Rangoon, Burma

When:  3-6 Dec 2012

Why:   Marine Ball + 1st USMC General Officer engagement with Burmese official

Details: This trip represents a first:  GO visit to Burma + GO discussion with Burmese military officials.

Maj Ibarra coordinated and helped execute the visit.  AAR is attached with details.

e.  Defense Language Corps:

Who:   DLNSEO

What:  looking for language volunteers

      (good opportunity for spouses & family members)

Where: across CONUS + overseas

Why:   Translators make up the 4,000-member Defense Language Corps. They volunteer their second-language skills and cultural knowledge when the need arises across the Defense Department and the federal government. 

<http://www.disamjournal.org/articles/Language-Corps-Members-Employ-Skills-for-Nation-836> 

f.  University of Indiana summer language workshops:

Registration for the Language Training Center (LTC) at Indiana University is now open.

Arabic courses are offered for 5 or 9 weeks from May 27 – June 26, 2013.

Russian courses are offered for 4 or 8 weeks from June 3 – July 26, 2013.

Those wishing to participate can:

1) Register with the Summer Language Workshop (SWSEEL): https://www.indiana.edu/~swseel/applications/login/1100.html 

2) Apply as a non-degree seeking student to Indiana University: https://onestart.iu.edu/sisad-prd/p/Guest.do?methodToCall=start&inst=IUBLA&career=GRAD&parm1=NDEG

3) Send a transcript showing proof of undergraduate degree to:

SWSEEL LTC

Attn: Mitchell Farmer

Indiana University

1217 E Atwater Ave

Bloomington, IN 47401-3703

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

Hope everyone had a great Christmas & New Years holiday!

9 updates today:

a.  FY13 slating update

b.  FY14 Col selects in the FAO/RAO community: 8

c.  FY14 Maj selects in the FAO/RAO community: 8

d.  AY13-14 Top Level School (TLS) selects in the FAO/RAO community: 8

e.  Japan FAO opportunity to support 13MEU + MCSCG

f.  FAO Association Happy Hour + National Language Service Corps discussion

g.  Asia Pacific Center

h.  China workshop #1

i.  China workshop #2

a.  FY13 slating update:

PLU is working with the monitors at MMOA to complete 59 slate recommendations.

MMOA will factor in promotion, Top Level Schools (TLS), CPIB/CCLEB results, MOS shortfalls, coordinated assignments, family constraints, Marine requests, etc into the mix for each assignment.

The draft we have now will get chewed up, stretched out, and turned into sausage a few times.  Anticipate late January as a realistic timeframe to see a final draft.

b.  FY14 Col selects in the FAO/RAO community: 8

ALNAV 077/12 was released 18Dec12.

5 FAOs + 3 RAOs were selected for promotion to Col.

Promotion rate service average:  45.5%

Promotion rates for FAOs: 55.5%

Promotion rates for RAOs: 50.0%

Congratulations to:

         Name             PMOS/AMOS  Track

1  LtCol Ian Clark        (7565/8228) ST

2. LtCol Jaime Collazo    (3002/8241) ET FPME

3. LtCol Drew Cukor       (0202/8241) ET

4. LtCol James Harp       (7566/8226) ET AFPAK Hand

5. LtCol David Jones      (0402/8241) ET Olmsted

6. LtCol Sekou Karega     (0402/8244) ST

7. LtCol Daniel Kazmier   (4402/8241) ET

8. LtCol Robert Plevell   (0202/8225) ET

c.  FY14 Maj selects in the FAO/RAO community: 8

ALNAV 073/12 was released 10Dec12.

4 FAOs + 4 RAOs were selected for promotion to Maj.

Promotion rate service average:  72.0%

Promotion rates for FAOs: 100%

Promotion rates for RAOs: 100%

Congratulations to:

        Name              PMOS/AMOS  Track

1. Capt Casey Benefield  (7523/8242) ST

2. Capt Blaise McFadden  (0402/8226) ET AFPAK Hand

3. Capt Jason Moore      (6602/8226) ET AFPAK Hand

4. Capt James Neagle     (7565/8220) ET PEP

5. Capt Daniel Schierling(7562/8242) ST

6. Capt Douglas Shores   (7523/8220) ET Olmsted

7. Capt Robert Spalla    (1302/8246) ST

8. Capt Scott Wilson     (4402/8243) ST

d.  AY13-14 Top Level School (TLS) selects in the FAO/RAO community: 8

MARADMIN 740/12 was released 21Dec12.

5 FAOs + 3 RAOs were selected for TLS.

Congratulations to:

         Name             PMOS/AMOS  Track

1. LtCol Kevin Hutchison  (0302/8241) ET

2. LtCol Drew Cukor       (0202/8241) ET

3. LtCol Robert Plevell   (0202/8225) ET

4. LtCol Vincent Yasaki   (6002/8248) ET

5. LtCol Ryan Gutzwiller  (0202/8224) ST

6. LtCol George David     (0202/8247) ET

7. LtCol Justin Dunne     (0302/8226) ST

8. LtCol Jason Perry      (0302/8248) ST

e.  Japan FAO opportunity to support 13MEU + MCSCG:

Who:   13thMEU/I MEF + MCSCG

What:  Request for N.E. Asia/Japanese FAO support in cultural advisor role to CO, 13MEU during Ex IRON FIST

Where: Camp Pendleton, CA (2 weeks) and 29 Palms, CA (1 week)

When:  20Jan-13Feb 2013

Why:  Operating forces request for FAO support

Background:  Exercise IRON FIST is a USPACOM/MARFORPAC directed bi-lateral amphibious training exercise between USMC and Japanese Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF).  I MEF has conducted similar training since 2006.  Exercise objectives include improving mil-mil relations between U.S. and Japan; enhancing interoperability between USMC and JGSDF; exercising USMC/USN amphib ops core competencies with JGSDF; improving amphibious planning capabilities for JGSDF HQ Staff; and improving amphibious operations capability of JGSDF.

Details:  TAD funding provided by I MEF G-3.  Japanese Speaking Level 1+ or higher desired.

Primary POC:  Maj Ryan Crais, MCSCG PACOM CLAT OIC (ryan.crais@usmc.mil / (757) 962-4157)

Funding POC:  Mr. James Whitlatch, I MEF G-3 TSC Exercise Planner (james.whitlatch.ctr@usmc.mil / (760) 725-9282).

f.  FAO Association Happy Hour + National Language Service Corps discussion:

Who:    all FAOs/RAOs invited

        Guest speaker:  Dr. Michael Nugent, Director DLNSEO

What:   FAO Association Happy Hour + discussion of National Language Service Corps (NLSC)

Where:  Army-Navy Country Clubhouse (Williamsburg Room)

        1700 Army Navy Dr

        Arlington, VA

When:   Thursday, 17 Jan 2013; 1730-2000

Why:    bring the joint FAO/RAO community together + inform everyone about NLSC

Details: The event will feature an update by the Defense Language and National Security Education Office (DLNSEO), which serves as the DoD FAO and foreign language policy and oversight office, on the rejuvenation of the National Language Service Corps (NLSC).   Established as a pilot program in 2006, the NLSC is a volunteer cadre of bilingual and former language specialists whose participants make their special language, region, culture skills available to DoD and other government agencies in times of national and international crises and emergencies.  Dr. Michael Nugent, the DLNSEO Director, and his staff will be available throughout the event to discuss the program and how to support or become a part of this national security asset (www.nlscorps.org)

The event will include light appetizers and complimentary drinks.

More information and online registration at the FAOA website, www.faoa.org

g.  Asia Pacific Center:

Who:    interested Marines

What:   Asia Pacific Center for Strategic Studies (APCSS) programs

Where:  Honolulu, HI

When:   see details www.apcss.org 

Why:    improve regional knowledge + establish mil-mil & civ-mil relationships

POC:    Maj Doug Krugman krugmand@apcss.org / 808 971-4072

        Capt Jennifer Proudfoot ProudfootJ@apcss.org 

List of available courses in FY13:

1.  Jan13:  Asia Pacific Orientation Course (APOC 13-1) 28Jan-01Feb 2013

2.  Feb13:  Senior Asia-Pacific Orientation Course (SEAPOC 13-1) 06Feb-08Feb 2013

3.  Feb13:  Comprehensive Security Responses to Terrorism (CSRT 13-1) 21Feb-22Mar 2013

4.  Mar13:  China-U.S. Bilateral Security Dialogue 01Mar 2013

5.  Mar13:  South Asia Partnerships in Disaster Risk Management 01Mar 2013

6.  Apr13:  U.S-South Asia Leader Engagement: Security Implications of Water Resource Scarcity 01Apr 2013

7.  Apr13:  Advanced Security Cooperation (ASC 13-1) 04Apr-08May 2013

8.  May13:  Securing Shared Prosperity: India, China, and US Maritime Perspectives 01May 2013

9.  Jun13:  Asia-Pacific Orientation Course (APOC 13-2) 03Jun-07Jun 2013

10. Jun13:  Transnational Security Cooperation (TSC 13-1) 17Jun-21Jun 2013

11. Jul13:  Security Sector Development 01Jul 2013

12. Jul13:  Malaysia and Philippine Workshop: Exploiting the Crime-Terror Nexus 01Jul 2013

h.  China workshop #1: 

Who:   China FAOs/RAOs

What:  2-day workshop:  China's Defense Science, Technology, and Innovation System

                        Current State and Development Prospects over the Next Decade

Where: Washington, DC

When:  Mon-Tue, 14-15 Jan 2013

Why:   UCSD / IGCC Project

This workshop provides a broad overview of the current state of China's growing defense technological and innovation transformation in the aftermath of leadership adjustments to the country's approach to innovation strategy and the 18th Communist Party Congress. This workshop draws upon the expertise of the DOD-funded Minerva Project on the Study of Innovation and Technology in China and bringing together leading China and strategic studies scholars. Lunch will be provided. Dress is business casual.

POC:  Heidi Serochi, Project Manager, UC Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation, hserochi@ucsd.edu /

858-534-8602

i.  China workshop #2:

Who:   China FAOs/RAOs

What:  2-week summer workshop:  Relationship between National Security and Technology in China

Where: UCSD campus

       La Jolla, CA

When:  21Jul-02Aug 2013

       Applications due 31Mar

Why:   To participate in a cohort of 24 Ph.D. students, UCSD faculty, DoD and other government officials, analysts and think tank staff.  This two-week workshop examines the relationship between national security, technology, innovation, and China's rise as a world power. Of central interest is how China is mobilizing and applying its economic, political, strategic, corporate, financial, intellectual, and scientific capabilities in conjunction with leveraging external resources to achieve its grand ambition of catching up technologically with the world's advanced powers within the next one to two generations.

Details:  Admission to this program is competitive. Contact POC for an application and other information.

POC:  Heidi Serochi, Project Manager, UC Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation, hserochi@ucsd.edu / 858-534-8602

Website:  www.igcc.ucsd.edu/SITC  

See flier for additional details.

SITCSummerWorkshopFlyerwodates2013 lb.pdf.pdf.pdf

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

Enjoy your weekend!

5 updates today.

a.  FY14 LtCol selects in the FAO/RAO community: 24

b.  FY13 Joint FAO phase II Courses

c.  language sustainment opportunity at Indiana U

d.  China leadership in transition, Capitol Hill forum

e.  access to SAPR training

a.  FY14 LtCol selects in the FAO/RAO community: 24

ALNAV 071/12 was released 5Dec12.

14 FAOs + 10 RAOs were selected for promotion to LtCol.

10 study track (ST), 14 experience track (ET).

Promotion rate service average:  66.7%

Promotion rates for FAOs: 77.7%

Promotion rates for RAOs: 62.5%

Congratulations to:

       Name               PMOS/AMOS  Track

1  Maj Sherif Aziz       (0202/8244) ET

2  Maj Brad Carr         (0302/8227) ET

3  Maj Josh Chartier     (0802/8244) ST

4  Maj Roberto Cuevas    (6602/8241) ST

5  Maj Greg Curtis       (7564/8223) ET

6  Maj Andrew DelGaudio  (0302/8222) ET

7  Maj Kevin Doherty     (6002/8220) ET

8  Maj Lina Downing      (3404/8241) ET

9  Maj MaryKate Flatley  (0180/8241/8247) ET

10 Maj Maxx Godsey       (0180/8243) ST

11 Maj Brad Hitchcock    (7202/8243) ST

12 Maj Kimberly Johnson  (0180/8243) ST

13 Maj Gregory Joseph    (0302/8240) ET

14 Maj Peter Lang        (0802/8220) ET

15 Maj Lance Langfeldt   (1802/8220) ET

16 Maj Adam Lefringhouse (0402/8244) ST

17 Maj Jeffrey McCormack (0302/8221) ST

18 Maj Amy McGrath       (7523/8220) ET

19 Maj Peter Munson      (7557/8244) ST

20 Maj Nicholas Nuzzo    (0302/8247) ET

21 Maj Derek Ost         (0202/8247) ET

22 Maj Aaron Samsel      (0180/8245) ST

23 Maj Randal Turner     (0602/8224) ST

24 Maj Roman Vitkovitsky (0602/8240) ET

b.  FY13 Joint FAO phase II Courses:

Five x 1-week courses are funded by DLNSEO to sustain regional knowledge of senior FAOs/RAOs.

The courses were condensed from 2 to 1 week to facilitate participation (easier to escape work for 7 days) and reduce costs.  See concept paper for details in the attachment:

    Region           Dates        Location        

1.  Latin America    04Feb-08Feb  Washington, DC  (registration deadline 15Dec)

2.  Africa           25Feb-01Mar  Washington, DC  (registration deadline 04Jan)

3.  Near East        18Mar-22Mar  Washington, DC  (registration deadline 18Jan)

4.  Asia Pacific     17Jun-21Jun  TBD, in theatre (registration deadline 19Apr)

5.  Eurasia          16Sep-20Sep  Washington, DC  (registration deadline 15Jun)

POC:  Mr. Robert Lucius, LtCol USMC (Ret.) relucius@nps.edu / (831) 656-1810

      FAO Course Operations Manager

      Naval Postgraduate School

      Ms. Ashley Dusenbury asdusenb@nps.edu / 831-656-7527

      Associate Operations Manager

c.  language sustainment opportunity at Indiana U:

Who:   Any FAO/FAS

What:  Language Sustainment courses

       Summer Language Workshop (SWSEEL)

       - Arabic

       - Russian

       intensive language programs at the 2/2 and 3/3 levels

Where: Indiana University

       Bloomington, IN

When:  27May-26Jul 2013 - Arabic

       03Jun-26Jul 2013 - Russian

       31Dec 2012 = registration deadline

Why:   improve language skills & sustain DoD goal 3/3.

Description: SWSEEL intensive summer language courses provide the equivalent of one academic year of instruction in 9 weeks. Students are in class 4-5 hours daily M-F and have about 3 hours of homework each evening. Extracurricular programming (including language tables, films, and lectures) provide additional exposure to the target language. Students of Russian study the fours skills and grammar 3 hours daily with a main instructor and also have dedicated instruction in phonetics, listening and speaking/conversation, each taught by a different instructor.  Participants will do OPIs at the start and end of the program.

Details:  http://www.indiana.edu/~swseel

Funding:  tuition funded by DLNSEO.

          TAD funded by unit.

          For those interested & available to attend, please let us know soonest.

POC:  Mr. Mitchell Farmer, Indiana University Language Training Center Coordinator mgf@indiana.edu / 812-855-6721

      Ms. Ariann Stern-Gottschalk, PhD. Director, SWSEEL aristern@indiana.edu / 812-855-1648

d.  China leadership in transition, Capitol Hill forum:

Who:    Dr. Jeffrey Bader, Brookings Institution

        Ms. Susan Lawrence, Congressional Research Service

What:   Capitol Hill forum:  China leadership in transition

Where:  U.S. Capitol Building

When:   Monday, 10Dec  1400-1500

Why:    Just after the U.S. elections, China began its once-in-a-decade leadership transition.  With the selection of the new Politburo Standing Committee, including Xu Jinping as President of China, Party Secretary General, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, what does this mean for the future of China? Dr. Jeffrey Bader will join us to explain the Chinese political system and to discuss the new leadership and what these changes might mean for Sino-U.S. relations as well as China policy domestically and regionally. 

Details:  use Independence Ave entrance to the Capitol Building. www.usasiainstitute.org

POC:  Ms. Mary Sue Bissell, Vice President and Executive Director of US-Asia Institute usai@usasiainstitute.org / 202-544-3181

e.  access to SAPR training:

For those at the farthest corners of the empire and unable to get to the Sexual Assault Prevention & Response (SAPR) material any other way.  This link allows Marines with access to internet/Google to download all the training materials as a ZIP file.

https://docs.google.com/uc?export=download&confirm=no_antivirus&id=0BxtEE30K6x-IM3UxeG9GN3Y0SUE 

MARFORSOUTH G-6 will provide tech support for users in SOUTHCOM AOR.  Users should go through respective MARFOR G-6s to get technical support and to track training.

POC:  Capt Roger Arenas, MFS G6 rogelio.arenas@hq.southcom.mil / (305)-437-2603

FY 13 JOINT FAO IN-RESIDENCE COURSE CONCEPT PAPER AND REQUIREMENTS (19 N....pdf
FY13 JOINT FAO PROGRAM COURSE APPLICATION[1].docx.docx
REQUIRED FORM FOR TRAVEL AND CCR.pdf.pdf

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

Happy Thanksgiving! 

6 updates today:

a. SAPR training

b. FY13 FAO/RAO billets

c. updated FLPP policy

d. The Asia-Pacific Moving Forward:  Unrest, Uncertainty, and the Pivot

e. Managing Instability After the Arab Spring

f. job offer in UAE for retired/reserve Marine

a.  Sexual Assault Prevention & Response (SAPR) training:

BLUF:  CMC intends for ALL Marines to accomplish this training ASAP. 

Issue: Many Marines have not completed CMC-directed SAPR training yet, particularly FAOs-in-training, PEPs, Olmsted Scholars, FPME, LNOs, Reservists, etc who are spread to the winds across dozens of countries with varying access to .mil websites (Marine Net), depending on host country.

       CMC has been tracking SAPR training completion rates, and is not satisfied.  Front office wants this training done; partial MARINE NET training, at a minimum.

Reference:  MARADMIN 379/12 http://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/MessagesDisplay/tabid/13286/Article/110486/execution-guidance-for-the-sexual-assault-prevention-and-response-command-team.aspx

Details: 

   1.  active duty (non deployed):  9Nov was our deadline.

   2.  active duty (deployed):  90 days from end of deployment to complete SAPR training.  Those of you overseas on ICT, PEP, Olmsted Scholarship, FPME, LNO, etc. are considered "deployed".

   3.  reservists:  30Sep2013 is the deadline.

   4.  All commanders/OICs are required to conduct face-to-face discussion with every Marine to complete training.

For those of you at remote locations, we recommend completing SAPR training on Marine Net soonest.  Your training record will automatically update the partial training requirement.  Visit your embassy if local internet will not facilitate Marine Net access.  If Embassy visit is impractical, make time to accomplish SAPR training on your next trip to CONUS, to a U.S. Embassy or base.  Let us know if you have questions!

b.  FY13 FAO/RAO billets:

MARADMIN 665/12 was released today. 

http://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/MessagesDisplay/tabid/13286/Article/134567/fy13-fao-and-rao-utilization-assignment-solicitation.aspx

61 FAO/RAO billets are available in FY13.

4 substance changes from the list I released to you on 5Nov:

  a.  billet #6  QAQ 8240 O5 PP&O    FAO/RAO PROGRAM MGR   DC                 JUL  (added billet)

  b.  billet #45 TA8 8245 O4 AFRICOM J-5 STRAT COMMS PLNR  STUTTGART, GERMANY JUN  (added billet)

  c.  billet #55 NE5 8247 O4 NATO    STAFF OFFICER AMPHIB  LISBON, PORTUGAL   JAN  (location update from Naples, Italy)

  d.  billet #56 NFU 8247 O4 NATO    STAFF OFFICER MARITI  IZMIR, TURKEY      JUN  (location update from Madrid, Spain)

c.  updated FLPP policy:

MARADMIN 645/12 = Marine Corps Foreign Language Proficiency Pay (FLPP) Exception Entitlements.

This outlines eligibility for FLPP at the 1/1 level (DLPT or OPI) based on unit assignment and operational requirements.

Missions have highlighted a need for foreign language proficiency at levels below 2/2. 

MARADMIN 646/12 = USMC FLPP Entitlements and Eligible Languages.

This policy is effective 1Nov 2012 and outlines normal eligibility for FLPP at the 2/2 level (DLPT or OPI).

FLPP is authorized for Marines, regardless of rank or billet, who have a current proficiency score, with the exception of languages identified as "prevalent in the force."  Marines with specific language requirements, such as FAOs, will receive FLPP for "prevalent in the force" languages.

This MARADMIN identifies languages on the immediate investment, strategic stronghold, and all other language lists for payscale purposes. 

Both MARADMINs are For Official Use Only, which is why the substance is truncated on the USMC.mil website.

Intel Dept (IOP) manages USMC FLPP policy, and determines which combination of languages and units qualify for FLPP.  POC is Capt Mark Powers (mark.powers@usmc.mil / 703 614-3938) or MSgt Jerome Krejcha (Jerome.krejcha@usmc.mil / 703 614-1161).

PLU can provide copies upon request.

d.  The Asia-Pacific Moving Forward:  Unrest, Uncertainty, and the Pivot:

Who:    US-Asia Institute

        Ben Doven, Congressional Research Service (moderator)

        Dr. Michael Green, CSIS + Georgetown (Japan expert)

        Mr. Michael Mazza, AEI (China expert)

What:   Moderated discussion to address recent tensions in the Asia-Pacific

Where:  US-Asia Institute

        232 East Capitol St. NE

        Washington, DC

When:   Mon, 3 Dec  1400-1530

Why:    off-the-record discussion of recent tensions in the Asia Pacific, including the territorial conflicts of the South China Sea and the Senkaku/Diaoyu islands, how these are affected by the US pivot towards the Asia Pacific, and what are some potential outcomes moving forward.

RSVP:   events@usasiainstitute.org

Details: http://usasiainstitute.org/2012/10/24/the-asia-pacific-moving-forward-unrest-uncertainty-and-the-pivot

e.  Managing Instability After the Arab Spring:

Who:    NPS

What:   3-day workshop to discuss political, social, and security implications of the "Arab Spring"

Where:  Washington, DC

        Venue to be announced upon registration

When:   Tue-Thu, 11-13 Dec 0900-1700

Why:    opportunity to learn and contribute to DoD, interagency, think-tank, NGO, and academia discussion to better understand the complex events and implications of the Arab Spring throughout the Middle East.

Details:  Free.  For those available & interested.  No funding provided from PLU.  Participants limited to 40.

Application deadline = 30Nov.  See details (attached).

POC:  Mr. Nick Tomb ntomb@nps.edu / 831 656-1829

Center for Stabilization and Reconstruction Studies (CSRS)/ Collaborative & Adaptive Security Initiative (CASI)/ Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)

f.  job offer in UAE for retired/reserve Marine:

Who:    TechWise

What:   job opportunity for retired/reserve Marine officer

        TechWise Global Primary Doctrine writer for Amphibious and Riverine Operations

Where:  UAE

When:   2013 (6-month duration)

Details: job involves writing amphibious and maritime operations orders in joint, combined, interagency environment.

Housing plan is to provide a spacious fully furnished apartment with weekends and local national holidays off. Work in the UAE will be full-time with a base salary and bonus potential. Specific qualifications and related information for these and other opportunities are described on the TechWise web site at http://www.techwise.com/index.php/careers

POC:  Mr. Conor T. Cusick, PMP

      Talent Manager and Business Development Associate

      TechWise

      6 North Tejon Street, Suite 501

      Colorado Springs, CO  80903

      Office:  719.955.3627

      Reception:  719.591.9966

      Cell:  719.360.6905

      Email: ccusick@techwise.com

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

Happy 237th Birthday + Veterans Day! 

8 updates today:

a.  FY13 Language Sustainment Funds

b.  What has a FAO done for me lately: FSI lectures/LtCol Duke

c.  What has a RAO done for me lately: 1st female Australia JTAC grad/Capt Tucker

d.  What has a FAS done for me lately: MAREX CROCODILO/GySgt Hodges

e.  FBI Translation & Interpretation workshops

f.  I MEF FAO/RAO PME #3

g.  IAP website

h.  FAOA luncheon - FAOs & Special Forces: Foreign Engagement and Building Partner Capacity

a.  FY13 Language Sustainment Funds:

Who:   Defense Language and National Security Education Office (DLNSEO)

What:  FY13 funds now available

Where:

When:  anticipate in the next 1-2 weeks, the MIPR of funds will be complete.

Why:   to support language sustainment of the FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS community

Details: more info to come, but we encourage you to start planning to take advantage of language sustainment opportunities in FY13.  I'll republish the rules of the road we used last year when funds are in hand & the light is officially green.

b.  What has a FAS done for me lately: FSI lectures:

Who:   LtCol J. Darren Duke, ME/NA FAO & former MARA to Israel

What:  guest lecture "Working with the U.S. Military at Post"

Where: Foreign Service Institute (FSI)

       "Political/Economic Tradecraft" class

       Arlington, VA

When:  Summer 2012

Why:   Opportunity to make an early and positive investment in DoD-State relations

Details:  LtCol Duke, study track ME/NA FAO, former MARA to Israel, and recent CO of 3d MSOB, has conducted this lecture to three successive iterations of the FSI "Political/Economic Tradecraft" class.  Each class of ~40 students provides training on working in American embassies abroad in the political and economic sections to junior (pre-first tour and post-second tour) Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) and Interagency staff.  LtCol Duke focused on the basics of the military culture and perspectives on foreign policy, as well as the various manifestations of the U.S. military presence at American diplomatic posts, their functions and roles.  Feedback from FSI has been positive and there is a desire to continue the program.  Any FAO with at least one embassy tour would be qualified to provide this brief in the future.  This is an opportunity to build DoD-State relationships, particularly as the Marine Corps emerges from OEF-A and opportunities to engage larger number of country teams emerge.  To volunteer, or for more details on the course, contact LtCol Duke: JONDD2@dni.gov / 703 275-2846.

c.  What has a RAO done for me lately: 1st female JTAC grad in Australia/USMC Capt Tucker:

Who:   Capt Emma Tucker, 7220-Air Traffic Control Officer

       USMC Personnel Exchange Program (PEP) officer to Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Squadron 4

What:  completed Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) course

       1st female to do so

Where: RAAF Base Williamtown

       Newcastle, New South Wales

       Australia

When:  Oct 2012

Why:   In preparation to deploy to OEF with Australian unit

Details:  Air Force news article JTAC, attached.  Gender diversity takes another step forward as a U.S. Marine becomes the first female JTAC graduate from Australia's course.  It's rare for the Air Control (72xx) community to get the opportunity to qualify as JTACs.  PEP assignments offer a broad diversity of challenges and opportunities.  Outstanding performance and a solid foundation in the MAGTF basics while embedded with a partner nation Army have resulted in personal requests from CO, RAAF Squadron 4 for Capt Tucker to deploy.

d.  What has a FAS done for me lately: MAREX CROCODILO/GySgt Hodges:

Who:   GySgt Andrew Hodges, ME/NA FAS currently deployed with 15MEU

What:  FAS support to 15MEU during Marine Exercise CROCODILO

Where: East Timor

When:  10-16 Oct 2012

Why:   FAS Beta Test; proving concept of LREC professionals improving outcomes of mission planning and execution at the tactical level.

Details:  MAREX CROCODILO After Action Report attached.  GySgt Hodges made a positive impact on 15MEU's 1st Theatre Security Cooperation (TSC) engagement of their deployment.  East Timor is outside of his ME/NA region of focus, but with support from CAOCL, GySgt Hodges applied a professional focus on LREC principles through CCTV briefs, smart cards, and language material to inform Marines and Sailors of 15MEU + Peleliu ARG.  By securing a position on the Forward Command Element (FCE), GySgt Hodges improved the interaction of the MEU with the Embassy, interagency representatives, and the armed forces of a partner nation, and gained valuable experience which will help 15MEU build off these lessons learned through the rest of the deployment.

e.  FBI Translation & Interpretation workshops:

Who:   FAOs/FASs & Marines with language ability

What:  FBI Language Services Translation + Interpretation Workshops

       - Chinese

       - Korean

       - Arabic

Where: The Woodies Bldg

       1025 F St. NW  Room WB-603

       Washington, DC 20005

When:  Chinese: 14-16 Jan 2013

                23-25 Jan 2013

       Korean: 29-31 Jan 2013

               11-13 Feb 2013

       Arabic: 11-13 Mar 2013

               25-27 Mar 2013

       Nov 2012 = Registration due

Why:   Opportunity to improve & build upon specific language skills.

Details:  Seats available; course is free of charge.  coordinate registration with MSgt Jerome Krejcha, Intel Dept (IOP) jerome.krejcha@usmc.mil / (703) 614-1161. 

Prerequisite for course admission is 3/3 language score.

f.  I MEF FAO/RAO PME #3:

Who:   I MEF FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS community

What:  PME series #3

Where: Pacific Views Event Center

       Compass Room

       Camp Pendleton, CA

When:  Fri, 30Nov

       1500-TBD

Why:   Strengthening relationships among FAOs/RAOs and FAS Marines assigned in I MEF and west coast bases & stations.

Details:  Coordinated by Maj Robyn Mestemacher robyn.mestemacher@usmc.mil / (760) 725-9218 at I MEF G-1 Ops.

1st PME:  Northern Distribution Network (Eurasia focus)

2nd PME:  South China Sea and East China Sea friction points, and the growth of the Chinese middle class

3rd PME:  open for volunteers

The PMEs are geared specifically toward Operational Culture, hitting the major learning objective wickets which might be found in a standard ICT trip report.  PMEs might also cover current events in a particular region/country and provide context as to how that might impact the Marines, or how Marines are currently engaged in the area, etc.  There are no attendance rosters or

efforts to intimidate Marines into participating; strictly those who want to and are able to attend, please attend.

g.  IAP website:

The new International Affairs Program (IAP) website address is:  http://www.hqmc.marines.mil/ppo/Units/StrategyandPlansDivision(PL)/InternationalAffairsBranch(PLU).aspx

You may have noticed a recent change in the appearance of www.usmc.mil website.  The DoD Media Department at DMA has migrated their data into a new platform, which data dumped a significant part of our site.  Not to worry,,, I'm whipping Nimish until he manually updates & transfers the old content to the new link. 

This skeleton site can still be accessed in the meantime.  As always, send us pics of you in action with a caption of FAOs/RAOs + FASs/RASs making a difference and we'll upload it.

h.  FAOA luncheon - FAOs and Special Forces: Foreign Engagement and Building Partner Capacity:

Who:   FAO Association + Guest speaker, MajGen Michael Nagata, USA, Deputy Director for Special Ops Forces, J-3/7, Joint Staff

What:  luncheon event

Where: Fort McNair Officers Club

       Washington, DC

When:  Thu, 29Nov

       1100-1300

Why:   discussion

Details: $25 for FAOA members, $30 for non-members.  Register http://www.faoa.org by 23Nov.

Lunch starts at 1130.

FAOA is a professional organization serving the interests of Foreign Area Officers in all services of the U.S. Armed Forces: active duty, reserve component, and retired. Founded in 1995, FAOA provides advocacy, networking, and mentorship.

POC:  Mr. Jon Dunn, FAOA Vice President admin@faoa.org

See FAOA Membership invitation for membership details.

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

5 updates today:

a.  FY13 FAO/RAO billets

b.  UAE Presidential Guard advisor opportunity

c.  Pakistani Bn advisor opportunity

d.  FY12 4th Quarter FAO/RAO Experience Track board

e.  What has a FAS done for me lately: Guatemala/OP MARTILLO

a.  FY13 FAO/RAO billets:

Here is a look at the 59 billets I see coming available in FY13.

54 FAO + 5 RAO billets. 

Keep in mind that 157 of 171 FAO/RAO billets are coded for FAO, but only 8 have a specific language requirement that we can't assign RAOs against; so we assign FAOs/RAOs to billets based on regional specialization inter-changeably. 

We will continue to work to release this list as a MARADMIN (hence, the format), and triple check all details with MMOA.  This list is 99% accurate, and I think the community is better served with more time to look it over than waiting for me to nail down 100% accuracy.

In the spirit of learning from the past, this list is based on the latest Staffing Goal report, which is the sheet of music the monitors use to determine where they can make assignments, factoring in draw-down plans, PCS timelines, etc.  You will see a lot of "Jan" dates here.  Does not mean that we have to move somebody off-cycle.  This is largely an indication of billets currently vacant & available for staffing anytime in FY13.  We have a lot of new structure + billets that did not make Staffing Goal in previous years opening up.

Billets are grouped from HQMC to the Joint billets.  An acronym guide is included as the final note.  I'll find a way to make that a bit cleaner for you.  I included an FY13 FAO/RAO utilization request form.  Makes our job simpler, sorting out your skill sets, prioritized requests, and balancing that against our billet list so we get best & most qualified in each assignment.  As more details come out, we'll push them as usual.  Please shoot us your questions.

b.  UAE Presidential Guard advisor opportunity:

A solicitation for Individual Augments (IA) will be pushed from Marine Manpower Force Augmentation (MMFA) + Marine Forces Command soon in an effort to source volunteers to Build Partner Capacity of our UAE partners.  Through a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case, the government of UAE is developing its Presidential Guard unit with the help of U.S. Marines.  The skill sets they're looking for are predominantly ground combat arms-centric.  Great opportunity for FAOs/RAOs & future FAS/RAS Marines to apply their skills & trade + reinforce your experience in support of a mission given to USMC. 

Officer billets will look something like:

1.  O6  8041  OIC                

2.  O5  8007  MCTM Deputy         MCSCG training Jun13 (combat arms)

3.  O5  8007  KBZ Cell OIC        LAD = Jul13 in UAE AE

4.  O5  0302  PGRG Cell OIC       LAD = Jul13 in U

5.  O5  0302  PGMG Cell OIC       LAD = Jul13 in UAE

6.  O4  8007  PGMG Cell Asst OIC  MCSCG training Jun13 (combat arms)

7.  O4  0302  PGRG Asst OIC       MCSCG training Jun13 (combat arms)

8.  O4  8007  SEN SPT Staff SEC   LAD = Jun13 in UAE

9.  O4  8007  MechInf Bn Trainer  MCSCG training Jun13 (combat arms)

10. O4  8007  MechInf Bn Trainer  MCSCG training Jun13 (combat arms)

11. O4  8007  MechInf Bn Trainer  MCSCG training Jun13 (combat arms)

12. O4  8007  MechInf Bn Trainer  MCSCG training Jun13 (combat arms)

13. O4  8007  MechInf Bn Trainer  MCSCG training Jun13 (combat arms)

Key leaders rotate in May

Main body rotates in Aug

LAD = latest arrival date

MCSCG = Marine Corps Security Cooperation Group

c.  Pakistani Bn advisor opportunity:

Who:   FAO/RAO field grade, combat arms (required)

       Urdu or Hindi speaker desired

What:  UNMIL Plans Officer

       12-month TAD with United Nations (UN) Mission in Liberia

       In support of U.S. Military Observer Group (USMOG)

Where: Liberia

When:  Oct13 PTP in DC + Quantico

       Nov13-Nov14 in Liberia

Why:   UN Mission assigned by Joint Staff to USMC

Details: Male only.  Assignment with Pakistani Bn on UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).  Duty involves preparing operational orders, contingency plans, reviewing subordinate unit plans, deployment details, conferences, and joint border ops.  Staff experience and PME complete for grade desired.  Active Duty preferred; Reservists eligible who can complete 1 year assignment.  Austere living conditions, eat, sleep and live with the Pakistanis.  Assignment will involve frequent travel around African continent and interaction with local

citizens/coalition forces/NGOs/gov't officials/UN observers.  12-month unaccompanied TAD includes per diem.

See link to UNMIL:  https://g357.army.pentagon.mil/OD/USMOG-W/default.aspx

Pre-deployment training: https://g357.army.pentagon.mil/OD/USMOG-W/UN%20CV%20and%20Med%20Form/Forms/AllItems.aspx

POC for more details:  Maj Bill Matory, USMOG J-3/7 FP/Training Officer William.J.Matory.Mil@mail.mil / (703) 545-7067

d.  FY12 4th Quarter FAO/RAO Experience Track board:

MARADMIN 634/12 was released today with official results from our latest Quarterly FAO/RAO experience track board.

http://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/MessagesDisplay/tabid/13286/Article/130152/fy12-4th-quarter-iap-experience-track-selection-panel-results.aspx

8 FAOs + 7 RAOs were designated.  Please welcome to the FAO/RAO community:

    Name                       PMOS / AMOS   Region          Note: 

1.  Col   David Coggins       (8041 / 8227)  W. Eur RAO      [NATO + UK Defense Academy]

2.  Maj   Chris Curran        (0302 / 8225)  S.S. Africa RAO [MA in National Security Affairs, MSG Ivory Coast]

3.  LtCol G. John David       (0202 / 8224)  ME/NA RAO       [MA Strategic Intel, MCESG Region 2]

4.  Capt  Matthew Davidhizar  (4402 / 8241)  LATAM  FAO      [JD U. Washington, Mexico + Venezuela study/law firm]

5.  LtCol Jonathan Dunne      (0302 / 8225)  S.S. Africa RAO [MS MCU, MARFORAF G-5]

6.  Capt  Benjamin Finkelstein(0204 / 8224)  ME/NA RAO       [MS Homeland Sec + ME Terrorism, RSO + reserve Attaché]

7.  LtCol Anthony Frasco      (3002 / 8221)  LATAM RAO       [MS in National Security Affairs, MSG + MCESG Region 4]

8.  Maj   John Havener        (7509 / 8227)  W. Eur RAO      [PEP UK]

9.  Maj   John Keenan         (0602 / 8240)  in-training     [2 MA in progress, Spain study abroad]

10. Capt  Chris Kennedy       (7509 / 8240)  in-training     [PEP Italy]

11. Col   Sean Killeen        (8042 / 8240)  in-training     [FMPE + PEP Brazil, SOUTHCOM Chief LNO to OSD/JS, White House LNO to Chile]

12. Capt  Blaise McFadden     (0402 / 8240)  in-training     [AFPAK Hands, MA in progress]

13. 1stLt Jacob Raver         (0204 / 8244)  ME/NA FAO       [MA Hebrew Univ, Israel + Egypt study abroad]

14. 2ndLt Victor Castro*      (0601 / 8249)  E. Eur FAO      [Missionary in Romania, 2 years]

15. Maj   Michael Murphy*     (7509 / 8247)  W. Eur FAO      [PEP Spain] 

* pending constructive credit waiver

e.  What has a FAS done for me lately: Guatemala/OP MARTILLO:

Who:   Capt Manuel Bueno 

       (LATAM FAO-in-training) finished NPS Jun12, starts DLI-Portuguese (Nov12-Jun13) + ICT/Brazil 2013-14.

What:  FAO support to MCSCG + MFS during Operation MARTILLO

Where: Guatemala

When:  26Sep-17Oct 2012

Why:   Effective capitalization on training gap between NPS & DLI, apply native Spanish skills + NPS education in support of MFS mission; gain exposure + familiarization with MCSCG; gain experience in region.

Details:  See BUENO_GUATEMALA, attached.

CO MCSCG has identified future utility of available FAOs/RAOs to augment MCSCG activities in support of MARFORs as a top priority.  Opportunities to operationalize & leverage FAO/RAO skill sets to accomplish Security Cooperation (SC) missions is important.  More opportunities to follow.

Col Baker's comments:  It's hard to quantify the role guys like Bueno, Daivu and Moffett play in country.  To many (including yours truly not so long ago) the accomplishments listed (emergency passports, etc) seem trivial.  They are not.  More important, there is no way to quantify the goodwill garnered with the SCO team, SDO, country team, etc.

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

5 updates today:

a.  South Asia FAO/RAO opportunity

b.  What has a FAS done for me lately:  Panama/MTT instructor

c.  What has a FAO done for me lately:  France/partner nation visit to I MEF/MCAGCC

d.  CCLEB results

e.  Conference, "Rebalance to Asia, Refocus on Okinawa"

a.  South Asia FAO/RAO opportunity

Who:   South Asia FAOs/RAOs

       O4-O5, Urdu speaker preferred

What:  LNO to Pakistani Infantry Bn with United Nations (UN) Mission in Liberia

       11-month TAD

       In support of U.S. Military Observer Group (USMOG)

Where: Monrovia, Liberia

When:  Jan training in Quantico

       Feb-Nov13 in Liberia

Why:   UN Mission

Details: Maj-LtCol eligible.  Active Duty preferred; Reservists eligible who can complete 1 year assignment.  Female not eligible.  Austere living conditions, eat, sleep and live with the Pakistanis.  Assignment will

involve frequent travel around African continent and interaction with local citizens/coalition forces/NGOs/gov't officials/UN observers.  11-month unaccompanied TAD includes per diem. 

Contact: Maj Bill Matory (William.J.Matory.Mil@mail.mil) 703 545-7067 [U.S. Military Observer Group (USMOG) J-37 Force Protection / Training Officer] or

Maj Kristopher Poirier (kristopher.r.poirier.mil@mail.mil) for billet details.

b.  What has a FAS done for me lately:  Panama/MTT instructor:

Who:   MSgt L.A. Godoy, LATAM FAS (reservist)

What:  FAS support for MCSCG + MARFORSOUTH Leadership MTT

Where: Panama City, Panama

When:  15-22 Sep 2012

Why:   support MCSCG + MARFORSOUTH efforts to build capacity + develop mil-mil relationships in Panama.

       Represents FAS support to a SOUTHCOM priority country.

AAR:   Reservist FAS, MSgt Godoy, was activated by MARFORSOUTH to augment a Military Training Team (MTT) engagement with the 2,300 personnel National Air Service of Panama (SENAN) with Marines from MCSCG.  The 300-man Marine Infantry (INFAMAR) force within SENAN is responsible for carrying out naval operations to include protection, surveillance, security and defense of Panama.  This MTT Leadership course was incorporated into Panama's new direct commissioning & advanced enlisted promotion training program; 9-months long.  The program is being conducted for the first time, allowing highly qualified INFAMAR Marine Sergeants to get commissioned, and junior enlisted to promote to the highest enlisted rank of Sargento Primero upon graduation.  The MTT was tasked with providing leadership training to newly commissioned Panamanian officers; predominantly prior enlisted with 11 years experience on average.  The 3-man USMC MTT lead was a native Spanish speaker, but inexperienced in providing training to foreign audiences.  MSgt Godoy functioned as an effective mentor to the MTT lead, helped develop and execute the course of instruction while translating material and facilitating smooth cultural integration.  MSgt Godoy's positive example as a senior SNCO, familiarity with the country and MTT material generated very positive feedback from Panamanian forces and the U.S. Embassy staff.  Language skills alone were not sufficient in this case.  Regional expertise and cultural knowledge, mixed with credibility in PMOS skill sets, made a LATAM FAS an extremely valuable member of this team.  MSgt Godoy's efforts improved the success enjoyed by this MTT, MARFORSOUTH, and ultimately SOUTHCOM.

See AAR attached.

c.  What has a FAO done for me lately:  France/partner nation visit to I MEF/MCAGCC:

Who:   Maj Jean Patrick Exantus, French PEP + Western Europe/France FAO-in-training

       Maj Marc Beaudreau, LATAM/Brazil FAO (French speaker)

What:  FAO support for French Land Forces Command visit to I MEF + MCAGCC

Where: Camp Pendleton (HQ, I MEF)

       29 Palms       (MCAGCC)

When:  11-14 Sep 2012

Why:   ACMC invitation

AAR:   2 FAOs effectively used their language, regional expertise, and current billet assignments as personnel exchange program (PEP) officer + GCE Training Officer at MAGTF Training Center to facilitate a partner nation visit and fulfill an ACMC request.  French Land Forces Command was interested to see how USMC conducts pre-deployment training and Enhanced Mojave Viper at 29 Palms facilities.  The French capabilities of 2 Marine officers facilitated smoother interaction during the visit, which included force management briefs, role of Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG) command brief, and tours of MOUT facilities, Infantry Immersion Trainers, Convoy Trainers, CAS simulation, IED training, and company live-fire exercises at 29 Palms.  The French highlighted several similarities in their approach to training and force management, and took home new ideas in applying existing technologies in effective simulation training.

See AAR attached.

d.  CCLEB results:

MARADMIN 566/12 was released 9Oct12, announcing FY13 CCLEB results.  http://www.marines.mil/news/messages/Pages/MARADMIN566-12.aspx

2,100 company grade officers were screened; 390 were selected.  This represents an extremely competitive 17% selection rate.  A separate slating panel will be conducted in December to assign selected Marines for one of 7 education & special programs:  FAO/RAO, Olmsted Scholar, Congressional Fellowship, Resident PME, Special Education Program (SEP), Advanced Degree Program (ADP), and funded law programs.

e.  Conference, "Rebalance to Asia, Refocus on Okinawa":

Who:   Honorable Hirokazu Nakaima, Governor of Okinawa

       Mr. Patrick Cronin, Senior Advisor/Director Asia-Pacific Security Program

       Mr. Narushige Michishita, Director of Security and Int'l Studies Program

       Mr. Michael O'Hanlon, Brookings Institution

       Mr. Akio Takahara, University of Tokyo

       Honorable Jim Webb, Senator from VA

What:  Conference, "Rebalance to Asia, Refocus on Okinawa"

Where: The Willard Hotel

       1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW

       Washington, DC 20004

When:  Tue, 23 Oct

       0900-1300

Why:   Discussion will cover possible solutions to the current impasse over the Futenma relocation plan, security and cooperation in East Asia, and Okinawa's future role in the U.S. balance to Asia.

Details:  Free.  Lunch + brief breakfast provided.  Luncheon keynote address by Sen Jim Webb.

RSVP:  http://www.okinawa-conference.com  

FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS Community,

6 updates today:

a.  MCO 5710.6B  Marine Corps Security Cooperation

b.  USMC Security Cooperation narrative

c.  MARADMIN 526/12 = cancellation of Transparent Languages CL-150 contract

d.  FAOweb & how our community keeps access to CL-150

e.  Fitrep PME Info Paper + CNA study

f.  PLU hail & farewell

a.  MCO 5710.6B  Marine Corps Security Cooperation:

MCO 5710.6B was released 20Sep.

http://www.marines.mil/news/publications/Documents/MCO%205710_6B.pdf

As a tool of national security, foreign policy, and an integral element of the DoD mission, Security Cooperation (SC) contributes to preventing conflict, enhances interoperability with international partners, and establishes the partnerships, access, and infrastructure that supports larger military operations.  This order provides USMC policy guidance and oversight to support persistent forward naval engagement and related USMC SC activities.

b.  USMC Security Cooperation narrative:

"Forward Deployed and Forward Engaged:  The Marine Corps Approach to 21st Century Security Cooperation"

http://www.marines.mil/unit/hqmc/planspolicies/PL/PLU/Pages/Hip%20Pocket%20Briefs.aspx 

This 20 page document details the USMC approach to achieving our Security Cooperation (SC) objectives.

The FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS community has a significant role in this, as our Services Language, Regional Expertise, and Culture (LREC) professionals.

c.  MARADMIN 526/12 = cancellation of Transparent Languages CL-150 contract:

MARADMIN 526/12 was released 20Sep and cancelled the USMC contract for CL-150, effective 26Sep2012.

http://www.marines.mil/news/messages/Pages/MARADMIN526-12.aspx/ 

Access to this valuable language tool is no longer available to the General Purpose Forces (GPF) via MarineNet.

Like Rosetta Stone before it, not enough Marines were using it.  The $1.4M contract juice was not worth the 4% user squeeze.  All good toys & tools go away when unused.

d.  FAOweb & how our community keeps access to CL-150:

Who:   FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS community

What:  continued Tranparent Language CL-150 access

Where: FAOweb

When:  1Oct2012

Why:   USMC contract with CL-150 cancelled,

       DLNSEO paid to provide Joint FAO community access

Way ahead:  To retain access to CL-150, simply log into FAOweb.  You will notice no difference.

1,000 individual licenses were purchased on a first-come, first-served basis.  FAOs/RAOs + FASs/RASs are all eligible to establish FAOweb accounts and access language tools like FAOweb.

Website: http://fao.nps.edu  

For help establishing a FAOweb account, reference MARADMIN 215/11.

http://www.marines.mil/news/messages/Pages/MARADMIN215-11.aspx

POC:  Mr. James Howard, FAOweb Director jlhoward@nps.edu / 831 656-1067

      Mr. Brian Boulware, FAOweb Manager bgboulwa@nps.edu / 831 656-1080

e.  Fitrep PME Info Paper + CNA study:

The experience of being a board member, and developing an appreciation for the significance of the USMC fitness reporting process, was invaluable.  Few Marines get the privilege; almost all feel compelled to provide PME to Marines back home.  I care about the FAO/RAO + FAS/RAS community, and your understanding of your OMPFs.

The Info Paper attached provides some insights.  Examples of breakout comments were withrdrawn by direction.

The CNA report is an official "Evaluation of the Fitrep System for Marine Officers", commissioned by Director, Manpower Management Division, M&RA.  Informative read, for those interested.

We will continue to make promotion/command/retention/school selection gouge available to you as it comes in.  Shoot us your questions.

f.  PLU hail & farewell:

Last, but not least, the face of your International Affairs Program management team is shifting.

Hail:

Effective 15 Oct 2012, Mr. Clay Fisher will return to team PLU as our Assistant IAP Coordinator.

A former LATAM desk officer in PLU, Argentina Foreign PME grad, and Argentina PEP, LtCol(ret) Clay Fisher will soon become the humor, brains & continuity behind this outfit, helping us hold all the details together to drive this program as effectively as possible.  We're excited to have him as a GS.  You'll see his name on the cc line going forward.

Farewell:

Effective 30 Aug 2012, LtCol Che "Curly" Bolden moved on to greener fields as the inbound CO to VMU-2 in Cherry Point, NC.  He was indispensable to PLU-8 and shouldered a significant load on behalf of the IAP community, fighting for POM funds to sustain our FAO + PEP training budget; shaping and staffing our MCO 1520.11E update efforts which combine our PEP + FAO/RAO orders and create our FAS/RAS program; re-aligning our PEP laydown; proposing a re-structure of our RAO program to indroduce LREC skills to RAOs in the future; responding to multiple General Officer RFIs, and other drive-by taskings.  We miss him already & wish him the best at VMU-2.

Taking his place is LtCol Mike Purcell, who has been with us since May.

DRM-2012-U-001003.pdf
Fitrep PME Info Paper.docx

Enjoy Colombus Day weekend!

Semper Fi

v/r

Worf