The U.S. Naval War College (NWC) has graduated 28 flag and general officers from 16 nations who participated in its Combined Joint Force Maritime Component Commander (CFMCC) flag course at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Sept. 12-18.
Developed to prepare senior leaders for regional leadership, the one-week course focused on current security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and highlighted the importance of maintaining a high level of trust and confidence within combined maritime command and control.
“Planning and executing maritime operations in the joint and combined environment is complex. It requires a high degree of personal and professional investment and commitment, but it is incredibly worthwhile and extremely valuable when we operate together at sea,” said Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
“During CFMCC, we came together as leaders focused on current challenges and strengthening our relationships which will allow us to prevail in the maritime domain.”
The College of Maritime Operational Warfare (CMOW) also provided an opportunity for the participants to explore cross-cultural communication and ways to adapt to a changing region.
“This course is a unique opportunity for flag and general officers across the Indo-Pacific region to gain a deeper appreciation of the unique challenges associated with leading or participating in a multinational naval operation alongside other component commanders,” said Sean P. Henselaer, J.D., director, executive level education at CMOW.
“The course structure and its social events, including a barge tour of Pearl Harbor and visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, provided an outstanding opportunity for the senior leaders to build enduring relationships with one another.”
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Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.

