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