NEWPORT, R.I. – More than 175 people attended the spouses and significant others evening lecture held at U.S. Naval War College (NWC) in Newport, Rhode Island on Oct. 4.
The event was held to give spouses and significant others the opportunity to learn a little bit about what their students will be studying during their time spent at NWC.
Opening remarks were provided by Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, president, NWC. John Jackson, a NWC professor, then gave a brief history of the college and was dressed as an 1890-era naval officer. Three speakers provided some information on their areas of expertise that some students will study during their time spent at NWC.
Toshi Yoshihara, the John A. van Beuren chair of Asia-Pacific studies, spoke on why China is going to sea. John H. Maurer, the Alfred Thayer Mahan professor of sea power and grand strategy in the Strategy and Policy department at NWC, spoke about Mahan’s strategic thoughts on naval warfare and maritime strategy. Capt. Mark Turner, director, Naval Staff College spoke on the international program.
NWC is a one-year resident program that graduates about 600 resident students and about 1,000 distance learning students each year. Its missions include educating and developing leaders, helping define the future of the Navy, supporting combat readiness, and strengthening maritime partnerships. Students earn Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) credit and either a diploma or a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies or Defense and Strategic Studies. Established in 1884, U.S. Naval War College is the oldest institution of its kind in the world. More than 50,000 students have graduated since its first class of nine students in 1885 and about 300 of today’s active duty admirals, generals and senior executive service leaders are alumni.