HQ NATO Allied Land Command (LANDCOM) in Izmir, Turkey, hosted three instructors from the JALLC’s Advisory and Training Team (JATT) for a comprehensive training session on the NATO Lessons Learned Process. The three-day event, running from 11 to 13 June 2024, aimed to equip military personnel with essential skills for capturing and applying Lessons Learned in both operational environments and during exercise training events.

The NATO Lessons Learned Process is crucial for continuous improvement and transformation within the Alliance and is conducted on a day-to-day basis by LANDCOM to ensure that valuable Land Domain related lessons are captured on a regular basis. LANDCOM serves as the Land Component Command in support of Joint Force Commands and as a Coalition Forces Land Component to provide theatre-wide domain expertise to Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR). As SACEUR’s principal land domain advisor, LANDCOM coordinates Area of Responsibility-wide activities to effectively deter Russia and Terror Groups and ensure a trained, ready, and lethal land force for NATO. By systematically capturing and analysing experiences, LANDCOM ensures that they are always ready to meet the latest security challenges posed by any adversary.

21 students participated in the training, all keen to deepen their understanding of the NATO Lessons Learned Process. Over three days, participants engaged in a variety of lessons and practical exercises designed to reinforce their knowledge and skills. Topics covered included data collection methods, analysis techniques, and the application of Lessons Learned to future operations. An experienced team of trainers used a mix of lectures, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities to ensure an engaging and effective learning experience. Participants were able to collaborate on case studies and real-world scenarios, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations.  The JATT was also able to take advantage of the Lessons Learned experience of First Sergeant Benito Ponce, HQ LANDCOM’s Lessons Learned Staff Officer, who provided an in-depth lesson on LANDCOM’s experience at executing the NATO Lessons Learned Process.

Feedback from the students was overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciated the comprehensive nature of the training and the expertise of the instructors. One participant remarked, "The training was highly informative and the ‘learning by doing’ methodology was particularly effective.”

The NATO Lessons Learned training delivered in Izmir was a resounding success, providing valuable skills and knowledge to military personnel. Events like these are essential for maintaining the high standards and operational effectiveness of NATO forces. Continuous training and the application of Lessons Learned are critical for the Alliance's future success.