As our ground forces are reduced, the defense budget is cut, and Americans focus on rebuilding our own nation, the void has to be filled, if America’s interests around the world are to be protected and advanced. Special Operations Forces are already playing that role, and, as time goes by, they are likely to shoulder an even bigger part of the burden of securing the nation. This session will also explore conflict and stabilization operations and the respective role of the military and civilian sectors therein.
Amb. Rick Barton, Assistant Secretary of State for Conflict and Stabilization Operations
Adm. Bill H. McRaven, Commander, U.S. Special Operations Command
Michael Sheehan, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict
Maj. Gen. Raymond “Tony” Thomas, Former Commander, Special Operations Joint Task Force Afghanistan; Former Commander, NATO Special Operations Component Command Afghanistan; Former Deputy Commander, Joint Special Operations Command
MODERATOR: Josh Gerstein, Reporter, POLITICO
