After America's First Battles

A military can learn, adapt, and still lose the war. Dr. Wendy Whitman Cobb and Colonel Cory Hollon join Gregory Hospidor and Sanders Marble to discuss why in After America’s First Battles, 1861–2008. From amphibious operations to air campaigns in Europe and Vietnam, the conversation examines why forces can change how they fight while leaving their assumptions about victory intact. Commanders, service culture, and bureaucratic barriers shape which lessons move beyond the battlefield and which remain trapped at the tactical level. For strategists, the challenge is recognizing when better execution leaves the larger problem unsolved.

If you have questions, comments, or episode recommendations, please email us at [email protected]

The opinions expressed here are those of the hosts or the guests and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Department of the Air Force, the Depart of Defense or War, or the United States Government.

Books Mentioned

Charles E. Heller and William A. Stofft, America's First Battles, 1776-1965 (UP of Kansas, 1986).