From:
Subject: New SOA Program
As the world changes, so does Fort Benning's School of the Americas.
Constantly concerned about maintaining democracy, military support of
civilian government and the vital role that SOA plays in it, the school
has debuted a new course. Peace Operations is a five week program open
to military and civilian participants from Latin America. The first
iteration of this program is noted for the attendance of two Nicaraguan
civilians. This is the first time in 17 years that Nicaraguans have
attended SOA. There are also three El Salvadorans and five civilians from
9 different countries for a total of 21 students. The main purpose of the
program is to teach tactics, techniques and procedures related to
operations other than war. Students learn about civil affairs, community
relations, logistics, preventive medecine, public affairs and engineering.
Study also includes the legal aspects of peacekeeping, the United Nations
and other regional organizations. SOA continues to be on the cutting edge of
democratic reform in Latin America with the introduction of this program.
It is especially inspiring to assist former enemies with building on the
democratic futures of their nations.