Fort Stewart, GA. – The Defense Orientation Conference Association visited Fort Stewart on Jan. 24, 2023. Their core mission was to absorb information from briefings and tours about 3rd Infantry Division Soldiers and combat support equipment.
DOCA was founded in 1952 by alumni of the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference and is a nationwide non-profit organization dedicated to continuing education in defense and national security affairs. DOCA provided a forum for the continuing education of JCOC alumni through briefings provided by senior leaders of the Department of Defense and the Department of State.
“We see the state of the military and it gives us an idea,” said Garry J.D. Hubert, a member of DOCA. “Afterwards, we tell our House of Representative members to assist in any way they can.”
DOCA provides direct support to the National Defense University, funded by the United States Department of Defense. NDU facilitates higher education, training, and professional development of national security leaders. By supporting the NDU Foundation, DOCA contributes both to the operation of a key institution for professional military education and the military-to-military relationship between the United States and our allies and partners through contributions.
Edward D. Pilpel, a member of DOCA, said the Secretary of the Department of Defense wanted to maintain the connection between the military and communities established in World War II. DOCA members communicate to civilians what they learn when they visit installations, such as what they learned about the people and the modernization of equipment.
“We just try to become as knowledgeable as we can with all the services,” said Hubert.
DOCA is committed to enhancing public understanding of current and emerging defense and national security issues, which is important for gravitating individuals to the armed forces.
While speaking with the Soldiers, it allowed members to understand their day-to-day life of being in the military and see the diversity of individuals.
“It’s always nice to talk to all levels within the military,” said Pilpel. “How confident these young Soldiers are is what we always take back with us.”
The members encourage heightened awareness of how our military forces contribute to the safety and security of the United States of America and its allies globally.
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