Taking Command: America’s Unsung Military Leaders, Innovators and Difference Makers Since World War II
It seems unusual that for much of the American public, the name if the officer who led the successful search for Osama bin Laden is not widely known. Indeed, that officer, who guided the operation that eliminated the figure most Americans regarded as the great villain of the 21st century, is quite probably better recalled for a speech titled “Make Your Bed” that he delivered to a university commencement audience. Widely disseminated on YouTube – the presentation has received millions of viewers – the speech is often used in training sessions, motivational seminars, and leadership forums. Delivered in relaxed conversational style, the speech maintains an impact that is enhanced by McCravenn’s appearance. More than one member of the university audience noted that in the ribbon bedecked uniform of a four-star admiral, the lithe former cross-country runner looked like someone out of central casting.
In February 2011, McCraven, then a vice admiral, was serving as commander of the Joint Special Operations Command when he was summoned to CIA Headquarters at Langley, Virginia. There, CIA Director Leon Panetta gave him details regarding bin Laden’s suspected location and assigned operational control of the prospective kill-or-capture mission to him.
After a decade spent searching, including an early near-miss effort at Tora Bora, Afghanistan, the CIA had developed what was thought to be solid intelligence indicating bin Laden had taken refuge in a compound at Abbottabad, Pakistan. The location was a considerable distance inside that country, about 100 miles from the Afghan border. Thus, the question of how best to get in and get out was a major consideration. That was but one of several issues that required resolution. McCraven assembled what was later described as a “dream team” of special operators, assigning members of the Navy’s vaunted Seal Team 6 to work with CIA specialists. Planning began immediately.
In February 2011, McCraven, then a vice admiral, was serving as commander of the Joint Special Operations Command when he was summoned to CIA Headquarters at Langley, Virginia. There, CIA Director Leon Panetta gave him details regarding bin Laden’s suspected location and assigned operational control of the prospective kill-or-capture mission to him.
After a decade spent searching, including an early near-miss effort at Tora Bora, Afghanistan, the CIA had developed what was thought to be solid intelligence indicating bin Laden had taken refuge in a compound at Abbottabad, Pakistan. The location was a considerable distance inside that country, about 100 miles from the Afghan border. Thus, the question of how best to get in and get out was a major consideration. That was but one of several issues that required resolution. McCraven assembled what was later described as a “dream team” of special operators, assigning members of the Navy’s vaunted Seal Team 6 to work with CIA specialists. Planning began immediately.