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<p>I went into Crossroads expecting mostly a cultural experience, to the extent I was “expecting” anything. In this regard, it is quite different than the other summer extern programs USMA had at the time (as I recall, a dozen or so positions at various military or government agencies; I believe these programs are far more extensive now). I had been disappointed not to be selected for one of the cushier posts; I couldn’t have been happier in retrospect. </p>
<p>What I got from Crossroads was a cultural experience well beyond my imagination at the time, AND a series of leadership challenges that were fundamentally different. Regarding the latter, without getting into the details, leadership in a non-hierarchical organization in a foreign environment presented different challenges from the ones normally presented at USMA during the Cold War, and indeed, was not an advertised or intended feature of Crossroads. I still recall the After Action Report I wrote about it.</p>
<p>Another unanticipated aspect was learning to rely on my basic military skills. Although I still had little training or experience, I still had more first aid, navigation and “survival” skills than anyone in the group, and was far better prepared for the adverse environment and situations than any other participant in my group. It was very satisfying to reap the benefits of my training, and I wished I had had more.</p>
<p>It was a fabulous experience, and one that is not easily replicated in the military environment.</p>