Lieutenant Colonel Henk Veraart (Equipment Specialist, Future Force Warrior, Technology Program Office U.S. Army, Natick Soldier Center) held an informal Q&A session with students following his career-day presentation at Buffalo’s Lake Effect High School. The following are selected excerpts from that exchange.
It’s uncanny, but my mom and dad always give me the same answer. How can you explain this?
Operations can suffer when there is a lack of continuity in the senior command structure.
Whenever my relatives come over, why is there always a lot of arguing?
Lines of command and control are often unclear and/or conflicting in urban operations, especially when police and military units are intermingled.
Does it really matter that I’m getting mixed messages from my girlfriend?
Affirmative. Clear rules of engagement are essential in urban combat situations.
Why do you think so many of our teachers resign?
The tempo of operations in an urban environment is so intense that personnel tend to “burn out” quickly.
I think my math teacher is messing with my head. Could this be?
Affirmative. Psychological operations are a key element of any military operation in an urban environment.
Why do you think the principal always insists we clear the halls ASAP?
The large-scale movement of urban non-combatants can significantly hinder military operations.
How come the school board decided to build a reflecting pool in front of the school, rather than the parking lot the students requested?
Amphibious operations can have an important role in urban warfare, especially in achieving tactical surprise.
Why are there so many teacher aides?
Small unit leadership, especially at the junior non-commissioned officer level, is critical to tactical success in urban operations.
Why have backpacks been prohibited?
The Soldier’s load must be dramatically reduced because urban warfare requires greater individual agility and stamina.
