Military leaders experience conflicts firsthand, giving them a unique perspective in discussions to resolve conflict through diverse and nonviolent means. As one of America’s earliest veterans, George Washington helped lead the U.S. recovery after the War of Independence and guide the country toward a peaceful path. In doing so, Washington set an example for the countless veterans who would go on to serve the country he helped found.

On November 7, USIP’s hosted its annual “First in War, First in Peace” conversation. Named in honor of George Washington, who was famously eulogized as “first in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen,” this annual series was created to engage and learn from our miliary veterans. This year’s program explored our military’s recent contributions in conflict and post-conflict areas and examine how stability and democracy can lead to better peace and security in a region.

Continue the conversation on social media using the hashtag #FirstInPeaceUSIP.

Speakers

Nancy Zirkin, welcoming remarks
Vice Chair, Board of Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace

Lindsay Chervinsky, Ph.D., introductory remarks
Executive Director, George Washington Presidential Library

Maura Hennigan
Brigadier General, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, U.S. Marine Corps

Carolyn Washington, Ph.D.
Colonel (Retired), U.S. Army; Adjunct Professor, Emergency Management and Homeland Security, Florida State University

Keith Mines, moderator
Vice President, Latin America Program, U.S. Institute of Peace

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