#32 - MAJ(P) Jacob Myers

Meet MAJ(P) Promotable Jacob Myers, currently serving at the Military Advising Training Academy (MATA) at Fort Benning, Georgia. Our discussion covers the purpose and function of MATA, the development and training of military advisors, and the history and evolution of Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs). Myers elaborates on his experience in Latvia, the challenges of building rapport and training in a foreign country, and the rapidly changing dynamics in Eastern Europe following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. We also touch on FAO professional development, the importance of language skills, and the valuable interactions and learning opportunities throughout a FAO’s career.   Books Discussed: Between Two Giants, Brit Batar The Russians, Hedrick Smith Kiril Yaskov, The Last Ring Bearer   00:00 Introduction and Disclaimers 00:45 Meet Major Promotable Jacob Myers 01:11 Understanding the Military Advising Training Academy (MATA) 02:29 History and Evolution of Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs) 06:53 Training and Deployment of Military Advisors 10:22 Challenges and Realities of Military Advising 14:05 Combat Advisor Training Course (CATC) Overview 19:14 Practical Training and Exercises 28:50 Expanding Training to Joint Forces and Foreign Partners 35:25 The Role of FAOs in SFABs 39:52 Personal Experience and Future Aspirations 43:51 Understanding the FAO Roles and Responsibilities 46:02 Navigating Challenges in Latvia During COVID-19 47:20 Impact of Russia's Invasion of Ukraine on Latvia 51:02 Strengthening US-Latvia Defense Relations 01:10:07 Language and Cultural Dynamics in Latvia 01:20:21 Jacob's Journey: From Basic Training to FAO Program 01:21:35 Joining the National Guard and Pursuing Active Duty 01:21:58 Transition to Active Duty and Deployment to Afghanistan 01:23:02 Experiences in Afghanistan and Promotion to Captain 01:25:20 Pentagon Assignment and Introduction to FAO 01:26:14 Discovering the FAO Program and Early Influences 01:29:58 Training and Assignments as a FAO 01:30:42 Language Training and Family Experiences 01:32:27 Marshall Center and Regional Travels 01:42:35 Importance of Building Relationships and Staying Informed 01:47:49 Final Thoughts and Advice for FAOs