LP/OP #2

Welcome back to the LP/OP, friend.

This newsletter shares insights from the highly pragmatic military methodologies learned throughout my nearly 20 years spent in the military and private sector.

We do so briefly, clearly, and concisely with respect for your time.

Every week we cover new…

• Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs)

• Inspirations and Applications

• Reflections and Challenges 

Tactic: Interlocking Fields of Fire

"Interlocking Fields of Fire" refers to the strategic overlap of weaponry coverage from different units/elements to create a continuous defensive barrier.

If one element is compromised, others provide uninterrupted coverage, ensuring a strong defense. This strategy emphasizes the strength of collaborative networks. For instance, a company might establish overlapping areas of expertise among its teams, ensuring that if one department is underperforming or undergoing changes, others can cover its functions without significantly disrupting operations.

It advocates for a system where roles and knowledge intersect, creating an environment of mutual support and redundancy that enhances overall performance and resilience.

In everyday life, this can mean cultivating diverse skills and social networks that support one another. When challenges arise in one area of your life, be it professional or personal, the strength and support from other areas can help you maintain stability and progress. This interdependent approach ensures that no single setback can wholly disrupt your trajectory, whether you're managing a project, running a household, or contributing to your community.

The advantage of "Interlocking Fields of Fire" lies in its promotion of redundancy and resilience. By having interwoven support structures, businesses, communities, and individuals can withstand challenges more effectively and maintain their momentum towards their goals.

Technique: OODA Loop

The “OODA Loop” – Pioneered by legendary fighter pilot, Colonel John Boyd, this decision-making formula helps you outsmart, outpace, and outflank the competition.

Observe

Orient

Decide

Act

This cycle, perfected by fighter pilots, can be used by anyone to navigate the complexities of market trends and interpersonal dynamics with military precision. By mastering this loop, you transform into a dynamic player, able to adapt and overcome with unparalleled agility.

Bottom line: The OODA Loop not only forces action but also ensures that action tilts the scale in your favor: your secret weapon for turning uncertainty into victory, making you the benefactor and beneficiary of rapid adaptation and unexpected success.

Procedure: After-Action Reviews (AAR)

Learn from every outcome by crafting high-quality after-action reviews/reports.

AARs are a structured review process frequently used by the military to analyze what happened, why it happened, and how it can be done better by the participants and those responsible for the project or event. Whether it's following a major project milestone or after a key business meeting, conducting an AAR provides immediate insights while the details are still fresh. An effective AAR requires the involvement of every team member who played a part in the event. This inclusive approach ensures multiple perspectives and enhances the quality of the feedback and learning.

Identify what worked, what didn't, and why. The goal is not to assign blame but to uncover actionable insights that can improve future performance in similar situations.

Bottom Line: By regularly implementing After Action Reviews, businesses and individuals can cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and learning, leading to increased efficiency and better outcomes.

Inspiration and Application: General MacArthur (No not that one)

Inspiration: Lieutenant General Arthur MacArthur Jr. (father of General Douglas MacArthur,) was a Civil War hero, and strategic visionary in the Philippine-American War, whose lessons in command and courage continue to inspire.

Perhaps most intriguing in MacArthur’s story is his promotion to Major by age 18 - this is unheard of and unparalleled in military history. The promotion stemmed from his actions at the Battle of Missionary Ridge, MacArthur exemplified leadership at a young age, showing capability can outweigh experience. In the Philippine-American War, he adapted traditional military tactics to counter guerrilla warfare effectively, showcasing the importance of flexibility and innovation in leadership.

Arthur MacArthur Jr.'s career provides timeless lessons in leadership, emphasizing adaptability, foresight, and integrity in overcoming complex challenges. 

The leadership principles of Lieutenant General Arthur MacArthur Jr. resonate profoundly today, demonstrating enduring strategies for modern leaders in business and governance.

Application: MacArthur’s rise at a young age underscores the value of empowering young leaders today, fostering innovation and fresh perspectives in modern organizations. His ability to adapt to guerrilla tactics mirrors today's business leaders facing rapidly evolving markets and technologies, emphasizing the need for agility and responsiveness.

MacArthur Jr.'s leadership legacy teaches modern leaders the virtues of youthful initiative, adaptability, and ethical governance, proving that true leadership transcends the bounds of time and remains relevant across centuries.

Reflection and Challenge

During this week’s shift at the LP/OP, we've observed the tactical, strategic, and reflective terrains that bridge military precision with everyday excellence.

We’re now prepared to plan and posture effective "Interlocking Fields of Fire," make rapid decisions and impacts using the OODA Loop for navigating complex situations, and we cached the wisdom of After-Action Reviews for continuous improvement - these methodologies are designed to fortify your operational and personal prowess. We've also drawn inspiration from the exemplary leadership of Lieutenant General Arthur MacArthur Jr., whose youthful leadership example and strategic acumen in varied battlefields underscore the timeless relevance of adaptability, foresight, and integrity.

Now, seize your strategic advantage by applying these profound lessons. Apply "Interlocking Fields of Fire" within your networks and life to strengthen collaborative resilience; employ the OODA Loop for sharper, faster decision-making; and establish routine After-Action Reviews to elevate your learning and efficiency.

Reflect on General MacArthur Jr.’s leadership, encourage youthful innovation and bold leadership in your own spheres. These actions are not just theoretical - they are steps towards a disciplined, adaptable, and resilient approach to success. Equip yourself, engage boldly, and excel.

This is your call to action to transform insights into outcomes.

That’s this week’s brief!  

Stay sharp and see you next week.

— Ryan “DQ” DeQuiroz —