The Impact of War on U.S. Army Leader Self-Development Domain in the Early 21st Century

The past 19 years of war have impacted the U.S. Army in countless ways. One is arguably on its most precious capability—its officer leaders. As the Army rose to war-related challenges, it did so at leader-development costs. Little time, focus, and a battle environment left developing others and oneself low on the list of priorities. Less officer nurturing in the past will have an amplified and harmful effect in the near and distant future; unless, of course, the Army understands its self-development state-of-affairs today and takes action to bolster adult learning. It is no longer a question of if the Army wants to develop its leadership seed-corn, but if they can.