Don’t get me wrong, the J3 is good and nice to be close too. He knows the ops that we talk about. The J2, a tense but giving relationship; he milks the intel to get us something to say. The J2 also complains when we say it. But the JAG, oh the JAG – he’s a PA’s best buddy. Here’s why:
- JAGs usually understand the need for public disclosure, partly because they’ve studied the constitution. They ‘get’ freedom of the press and all that jawn.
- In the JOC, I’m happy to sit next to the JAG. He monitors ops as closely as we do. He has to understand the intel in order to get to an informed recommendation … like us.
- He cares about language because language has legal consequence. We do too.
- JAGs are usually pretty good writers. They often copy edit our shit.
- Lawyers learn how to argue. Through information (not influence) we consistently present arguments.
- Like you, the JAG is a member of the commander’s personal staff. He understands the close relationship you have with the boss; your role as an advisor; and the commander’s position on important issues better than most.
Be close to your JAG.
