The Class of 1952’s annual speaker series at the U.S. Military Academy recently hosted GEN (R) David Petraeus ’74 on April 15, where he delivered this year’s distinguished lecture. Over 1,000 attendees, including students from SS202 American Politics and SS307 Introduction to International Relations, as well as staff and faculty members, attended the lecture.
Petraeus delved into his professional journey, shedding light on how the military is navigating innovation, technology, and the future of national defense. Petraeus covered a range of topics such as the stages of strategic leadership, principles of trust between political leaders and senior military commanders, and various aspects of national security strategy. He also drew from his latest book, “Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine,” offering insights into the changing landscape of global conflict.
Each spring, the Department of Social Sciences and the West Point Association of Graduates co-hosts the Class of 1952 Distinguished Guest Lecture Series. This event showcases a public figure whose work reflects the core values of West Point: “Duty, Honor, Country.”
Past speakers include Henry Kissinger, LTG (R) Brent Scowcroft, Madeline Albright, Tom Brokaw, LTG (R) H.R. McMaster ’84 and GEN (R) Martin Dempsey ’74.
The Class of 1952’s distinguished lecture series provides cadets with exposure to exceptional policymakers, military leaders, academic scholars, business experts, and leaders. These conferences are made possible through generous contributions to WPAOG’s Margin of Excellence.
