Marine Corps Gazette – As the Marine Corps progresses through the 21st century, it is time to make some institutional changes regarding the education of all Marines. While we all can be proud of the speed and skill demonstrated during major combat operations both in Afghanistan and Iraq, as we have seen, when fighting fourth-generation wars, the defeat of an enemyís military forces alone no longer guarantees victory. Indeed, it may only create the opportunity for victory, which can be squandered if follow-on planning and forces are not able to take rapid advantage of initial success. The chief educational deficiency that needs to be addressed Corps-wide is the appalling lack of either opportunity for, or meaningful incentive to, study foreign languages and cultures.

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