Cadets on the “Culture, Narrative, and Civil-Military Operations” Academic Individual Advanced Development (AIAD) had a unique opportunity to participate in NATO Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) training while engaging the rich history, architecture, and culture of Italy's Venito region. As observers at the CIMIC Field Workers Course, Cadets participated in CIMIC planning and Civil Engagement exercises at the tactical and staff levels, working in small groups alongside Officers (O2-O5) from Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, Greece, Slovakia, and Jordan. Cadets were awarded certificate credit for the CIMIC Awareness Course in consideration of their exceptional efforts. The Officers, Warrant Officers, and staff at NATO MN CIMIC Group (South) also provided Cadets the opportunity for cultural immersion in Italian unit, family, and community life.
Following the conclusion of the course, Cadets visited the USARAF G9 at Vicenza, ITA, where they learned about Civil Affairs, Civil-Military Operations Centers (CMOCs), Civil Information Management (CIM). Cadets were then able to practice critical thinking about culture through visits to significant UNESCO World Heritage sites at Vicenza, Treviso, and Venice. In Venice, Cadets also had the opportunity to see events and exhibits associated with the famous Venice Biennale.