The program connects first-term U.S. Senators and House members, 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.
Creating interaction opportunities that aid civilian leaders in their policy-making duties is crucial when relatively few civilian leaders have had military experience. Likewise, military leaders should develop a better understanding of the policy-making process.