Embracing Failure in Wargaming: Insights from a Marine Corps General

April 11, 2025 - 14:54

A Marine Corps general advocates for the importance of wargaming within military training, emphasizing that both officers and enlisted personnel should embrace the possibility of failure during these exercises. According to the general, wargaming serves as a critical tool for developing strategic thinking and operational skills. He believes that the lessons learned from losing a wargame can be as valuable as those gained from winning.

The general encourages military personnel to view wargaming as a safe environment to experiment with tactics and decision-making processes without the high stakes of real combat. By fostering a culture where failure is not stigmatized but rather seen as an opportunity for growth, the Marine Corps can cultivate more innovative and adaptable leaders.

This approach challenges traditional views on competition within military training, promoting a mindset that prioritizes learning and improvement over simply achieving victory. Ultimately, the general's perspective highlights the evolving nature of military training in an increasingly complex world.