Retired general discusses national security Published Dec. 14, 2012 By Donovan Jackson Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Al -- Retired Marine Corps Gen. James Cartwright visited the Air University on Dec. 7 to help prepare and inform students at Air War College as to how the national security apparatus works. By using previous tactical government decisions as case studies, students in Cartwright's workshop got the chance to query him as to why and how government resolutions are implemented. "These students are being conditioned to be leaders of their service," said Cartwright, who served as the eighth vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2007-11. "These case studies will help expose them to the decision-making process that they will need to become accustomed to in the future." The case study discussed during Cartwright's visit was the surge in Afghanistan, and what factors the government used to implement that decision. "I want these students to leave this school and be able to practice what they're learning here, as it will be nothing less of what will be expected from them as they get more senior (in rank)," he said. According to Cartwright, by bringing in senior military and civilian personnel, AWC gives its students the opportunity to receive practical insight on topics that will help develop them into strategic thinkers. Cartwright graduated with distinction from the Air Command and Staff College in 1986 and served more than 40 years in the Marine Corps. Cartwright said that he has visited Maxwell on numerous occasions and coming back to the base is always a pleasure for him. "Every time I visit, it is always a proud moment for me," he said. "Maxwell, indeed, produces the finest Airmen."