Civil-Military Programs
Connecting the Military to Congress
Members of Congress and other civilian leaders can learn more about today’s military through the Stennis Center for Public Service’s programs to enhance the understanding of civilian leaders with regards to military life, values, culture, and institutions. As fewer members of Congress come to office with military experience, it is important to help those who have a constitutional responsibility to “provide for the common defense” to connect with those who serve in the military to build relationships and understanding that will lead to better informed policy decisions.
U.S. Navy Leadership Awards
American aircraft carriers are frequently described as “floating cities,” with crews of over 5,000 men and women who work together to keep America safe. Despite the technical capabilities that make aircraft carriers valuable assets in America’s national defense, the leadership demonstrated by the men and women who serve aboard makes it most impressive. To recognize and honor the men and women who demonstrate outstanding public service leadership in the U.S. Navy, the Stennis Center created a unique leadership awards program for aircraft carriers and U.S. Navy Recruiting Command.
Leadership Dialogue and Discussion program
The Stennis Center regularly conducts Civil-Military Leadership Dialogue and Discussion programs to connect top leaders from the military and Congress. The program connects first-term U.S. senators and representatives, in addition to senior-level congressional staff members, to military leaders and enables them to learn more about military life, values, institutions, and culture. The program has provided meaningful opportunities for military and civilian leaders to increase awareness and understanding between the military and civilian spheres of responsibility.
Prospective Commanding Officer Program
A major component of the Stennis Center’s initiative to improve civil-military relations is a program to help those who lead America’s aircraft carriers, the most powerful warships in history, connect with civilian leadership on Capitol Hill.
Before they assume command, each prospective commanding officer (PCO) of the Navy’s nuclear-powered aircraft carriers attends a program on Capitol Hill where they meet members of Congress and senior-level congressional staff who work on national security issues. The goal is to build understanding and relationships between the civilian leaders in Congress and key military leaders. The program is held in conjunction with a five-week nuclear refresher course required in Washington, D.C., for every PCO as a final step in preparation to assume command.
Symposium on Civil-Military Relations
The Symposium on Civil-Military Relations is an informative and interactive symposium, where both civilian and military leaders assemble to address the crucial divide between civilian and military life. At this event, members of the Department of Defense, congressional staff, nonprofits, and think tanks convene to discuss and dissect how Congress can help bridge the divide between civilians and military personnel. Past speakers have included Admiral (Ret.) Gary Roughead, Rear Admiral (Ret.) John Kirby, and former Secretary of Defense and U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel.
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