American military activity throughout the past decade has forever changed global warfare. Conflicts during this period have focused primarily on counterinsurgency (COIN), a form of war intended to be ever-changing, multi-faceted, and complex. Within the military, efforts to overcome these conflicts have been unyielding and, often times, confusing. As a result, an improved, common interpretation of tactical operations has become paramount to future success. While the military typically handles the lethal operations within such conflicts, the responsibility to conduct nonlethal operations is more commonly shared with various other institutions. The distribution of information between the military, other government agencies, civilian leaders, and even the American population is essential to success in our current conflicts. Information flow is the linchpin between improved inter-governmental relations and informed strategic decision making. Additionally, in order to retain popular support, accurately informing the American public through the use of media outlets bears an equal, if not greater, importance.
One commonly used method of information sharing is through the retrospective dissemination of “best practices.” The deployment of Task Force (TF) 2-6, the “Gators,” to Salman Pak, Iraq in the spring of 2008 provides a germane example for this. Throughout 14 months on the ground, valuable lessons were learned in both counterinsurgency and nonlethal tactics. The conditions in Salman Pak, the heart of what was once one of the most tumultuous areas of Iraq known as the “Sunni Triangle,” provided a unique atmosphere allowing for the polishing of these practices. Through close analysis, partner organizations, civilian leaders, and the media alike can capitalize on the successes and failures of the unit, achieving a greater understanding of civil-military operations for their future use.