Marine Corps Gazette

Excited to share that my article, Beyond the Buzz: The EW and Analog Imperatives, was published in the February 2025 edition of the Marine Corps Gazette and recognized as an Honorable Mention in the LtCol Earl “Pete” Ellis Essay Contest. The piece explores a critical challenge on today’s battlefield: the increasing dominance of electronic warfare (EW) and unmanned systems, and the risks of over-reliance on digital technology. As conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East has shown, Marines must be prepared to fight in contested electromagnetic environments—where communication can be jammed, drones can be hijacked, and precision weapons can be rendered ineffective. To maintain a competitive edge, the Marine Corps must aggressively develop distributed EW capabilities while simultaneously mastering traditional analog warfighting skills. A big thank you to the Marine Corps Gazette for providing a platform to engage in this important discussion. Looking forward to continuing the conversation—would love to hear thoughts from fellow Marines, technologists, and warfighters. #MarineCorps #ElectronicWarfare #Leadership #Warfighting #ForceDesign #USMC Marine Corps Gazette

Apropos of nothing—almost 10 years ago I wrote this piece for the Marine Corps Gazette, arguing that seen through the framework of John Boyd’s theories on competition and survival, American foreign policy and associated military operations were more successful when leaders clearly articulated what the nation stood for and why it was fighting, with that “unifying vision” acting as a force multiplier to solidify one’s own side and drawn in partners. I dunno, seems pertinent.

??? Attention Marines! The Marine Corps Association is excited to celebrate the Corps’ 250th birthday with a writing contest that honors our legacy of valor. Show off your writing skills and win amazing prizes! ?? PRIZES 1st Place: $1,000 + Engraved Plaque 2nd Place: $750 + Engraved Plaque 3rd Place: $500 + Engraved Plaque TOPIC: Write about which battle, aside from Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima, and the Chosin Reservoir, deserves to be recognized as a Marine Corps touchstone battle. DEADLINE: 31 March CONTEST DETAILS: - Maximum 2,000 words - Submit in Microsoft Word format - Include contact information: name, grade, unit, SNOIC/OIC, bio, email, and phone number - Email submissions to [email protected] This contest is sponsored by Colonel Charles Michaels, USMC (Ret). We can’t wait to read your work! ???? ?? https://buff.ly/3NM48Cx #LeatherneckWritingContest #MarineCorps #WritingContest #SemperFi #MarineLegacy #LeatherneckMagazine

??? New Episode Release: Honoring Iwo Jima’s 80th Anniversary In this week’s episode of Scuttlebutt, we’re joined by Dr. Robert Burrell, PhD, Marine Corps veteran, professor, and author of The Ghosts of Iwo Jima. Dr. Burrell’s profound insights on the Battle of Iwo Jima — a pivotal moment in U.S. history — are a must-listen. He shares his journey, from serving as an infantryman to influencing key military decisions as part of the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin. Tune in to hear how his passion for studying Iwo Jima shaped his career and deepened his understanding of its national significance. ?? Listen here: https://lnkd.in/e_puaUnR #IwoJima #MarineCorps #MilitaryHistory #Veterans #Leadership #MCAScuttlebuttPodcast

You can find my most recent Tactical Decision Game inside the pages of the Marine Corps Gazette this month. In this TDG I explore a worst case scenario where China launches an attack on the island of Taiwan and how a squad of Marines find themselves in a tactical dilemma which could alter the operational environment. The idea for this TDG comes from a novel I am writing on a similar scenario which aims to educate service members on the operational environment surrounding potential conflict in the South China Sea. I hope this helps Marines around the force continue to expand their understanding of the future demands of warfare. Marine Corps Association

Honored to be interviewed by the Marine Corps' most popular podcast, where I discuss the battle of Iwo Jima, its continued importance to the Corps, and applicable lessons for competition with China. Many thanks to Vic, Will, and the Marine Corps Association. #marines #china #Australia #iwojima. https://lnkd.in/edpcQNxQ

?????? A HUGE thank you to USAA for giving these two amazing Marines, CWO5 Jonathan Knauth (Ret) and SgtMaj Kevin Bennett (Ret), the VIP experience of a lifetime at the Super Bowl this year! From serving our country to celebrating at the biggest game of the year, these heroes definitely earned their moment in the spotlight. #SuperBowl #GratefulForOurTroops #USAA #Marines #HeroesAtTheGame

Matt Watkins, Founder and CEO of Operation Headshot was featured in the January 2025 edition of Leatherneck Magazine. During his interview he discussed the adversities that can accompany transitioning away from the military and how through gaming he was able to rebuild and strengthen the bonds with his two children. Though Operation Headshot does not have a focus on healing through the power of gaming, we find it is important to build relationships and partnerships with other organizations that do, such as the Warrior GMR Foundation. The transition off of active duty can be difficult. That is why it is so important we as #veterans, #militaryspouses, and #advocates of the #militarycommunity band together to provide support.

?? In honor of Black History Month, we revisit the remarkable contributions of the Montford Point Marines, whose bravery and sacrifice during World War II shattered racial boundaries and left an indelible mark on history. One of their defining moments came on the sands of Iwo Jima, where black Marines, who were initially relegated to non-combat roles, found themselves on the front lines—facing relentless fire to supply, protect, and fight alongside their fellow Marines. The courage of Corporal Gene Doughty, Sergeant Thomas McPhatter, and countless others not only bridged a racial divide but also exemplified the core values of the Marine Corps: honor, courage, and commitment. Their actions continue to inspire Marines today. Read the full story of these trailblazers and their heroic efforts at Iwo Jima: https://buff.ly/4gzRP7R #BlackHistoryMonth #MontfordPointMarines #IwoJima #USMC #NeverForget #MarineCorpsHistory

???? This Presidents' Day, we recommend tuning into our MCA Scuttlebutt podcast episode with MajGen Jason Bohm, USMC (Ret), as he delves into the origins of the Marine Corps and the pivotal role the Continental Marines played in shaping America's early military history. From the founding of the Corps to the leadership of George Washington, this episode is a perfect fit for Presidents' Day. Listen to a conversation that sets the stage for a year of reflection on the Marine Corps' 250-year legacy. ?? https://buff.ly/4enQmAt #PresidentsDay #MarineCorps250 #MCAScuttlebuttPodcast #Leadership #MarineHistory #RoadTo250 #VeteranStories #WashingtonsMarines