Public Opinion, National Will & Vietnam: Lessons for PA in Modern Warfare | MAJ Tara Santon

Why does U.S. domestic public opinion matter in combat operations? How did public affairs policies and events during the Vietnam War (1964–1970) contribute to the rapid decline in national will—and what can today’s leaders learn? In this interview, MAJ Tara Santon, U.S. Army Public Affairs Officer and Art of War Scholar at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College (CGSC), discusses her MMAS thesis examining the relationship between public opinion, national will, and public affairs policies. Drawing from her transition from Field Artillery to Public Affairs, she highlights why PAOs are essential combat enablers and how overly restrictive policies can create vulnerabilities. Hosted by MAJ Tyree Meadows, the conversation explores the Art of War Scholars Program, its focus on military history and “ways of war,” unique experiences like staff rides (e.g., Battle of the Bulge), guest lectures from doctrine writers and retired generals, and practical advice for balancing rigorous research with family life as a military spouse and mom. This interview is part of the 2025–2026 Scholar Profile Interview Series highlighting members of the Information Advantage Scholars Program and Art of War Scholars Program at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. The series explores student research, professional development, operational insights, and the evolving challenges shaping the future of warfare and military leadership. Topics Discussed: U.S. Public Opinion and National Will in Warfare Public Affairs (PAO) Role in Combat Operations Vietnam War Information Environment (1964–1970) Art of War Scholars Program at CGSC Military History, Ways of War, and Operational Art Staff Rides and Battlefield Terrain Analysis (Battle of the Bulge) Balancing CGSC research with family life Thesis development and MMAS process Interviewee: MAJ Tara Santon, U.S. Army Public Affairs Officer (Former Field Artillery) Interviewer: MAJ Tyree Meadows Production Support: Meadows Media LLC The U.S. Army Command and General Staff College (CGSC) develops agile, adaptive leaders through professional military education focused on leadership, operational art, history, and the evolving character of warfare. Subscribe for additional discussions covering: Public Affairs • Information Operations • National Will • Vietnam Lessons • Art of War Scholars • Military History • Leadership • Professional Military Education #CGSC #ArtOfWarScholars #PublicAffairs #NationalWill #VietnamWar #PublicOpinion #MilitaryHistory #PAO #OperationalArt #Leadership #ProfessionalMilitaryEducation #MMAS Disclaimer: The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.