Military Strategy for Diplomats: General Miller Guest Lecture

Students in LTC Adam Scher's Military Strategy for Diplomats course at Seton Hall University were recently treated to a special guest lecture by General Austin Scott Miller and Mr. Dante Paradiso who led a discussion on the interplay between diplomacy and military strategy.

General Scott Miller is a highly decorated military leader with nearly 40 years of service, commanding in diverse and challenging environments such as Korea, Mogadishu, Afghanistan and Iraq. Known for his exceptional combat skills and inspirational leadership, General Miller has earned numerous accolades, including two Purple Hearts and the Silver Star. General Miller's distinguished career exemplifies his status as one of the finest Combat Commanders in modern military history.

General Miller assumed command of US and NATO forces in Afghanistan in September 2018, overseeing strategic efforts to end the conflict in the region. During the meeting, he emphasized the importance of recognizing partnerships with other US agencies to achieve common objectives, highlighting the challenges faced by the US military in Afghanistan.

In his engaging discussion with students, General Miller explained the evolving nature of warfare in the modern age, particularly with advancements in technology shaping the battlefield. General Miller underscored the need for interdisciplinary collaboration among soldiers, members of the foreign service, and the intelligence community to navigate the complexities of conflicts effectively.

Accompanying General Miller was Dante Paradiso, a career diplomat, author, and lawyer who provided valuable insights into diplomacy with his 25 years of experience working in government. Mr. Paradiso delved into the theoretical frameworks and strategic thinking necessary for effective problem-solving in international relations. He emphasized the significance of understanding diverse cultures and belief systems in fostering diplomatic engagements.

Students were encouraged by Mr. Paradiso to consider the geopolitical landscape in which they will operate as future leaders. General Miller and Mr. Paradiso stressed the importance of humility, open-mindedness, and cooperation in addressing multifaceted challenges on the global stage.

The virtual meeting ended with a student's question to General Miller about how to approach developing and instilling effective leadership in others. General Miller emphasized the value of character, continuous learning, physical fitness and a deep understanding of one's motivations as crucial aspects of being a leader in life.

The thought-provoking meeting between General Scott Miller, Dante Paradiso, and the combination of Army ROTC cadets and School of Diplomacy students at Seton Hall University underscored the vital role of diplomacy and military strategy in shaping international relations. The session was an inspiring example of cross-sector collaboration and leadership development for the next generation of multi-dimensional leaders.

Categories: Nation and World