Marine Leaders of The Americas Conference (MLAC) 2025

MLAC25 Theme:

"Naval Infantry Spearheading Maneuver in Future Maritime Challenges.”

MLAC 2025 Overview:

The Marine Leaders of the Americas Conference (MLAC) is a gathering convening senior naval infantry leaders from across the Western Hemisphere and other key partners who share interests in the region. The forum establishes a unified platform where regional commandants and senior naval infantry officials can deliberate on shared security challenges facing the Americas. This event allows an opportunity for direct one-on-one bilateral engagements with senior leaders and the Commandant of the Marine Corps of the United States.

This year’s MLAC will be held in the National Capital Region and is hosted by the United States Marine Corps.  The theme for the tenth iteration of MLAC is “Naval Infantry Spearheading Maneuver in Future Maritime Challenges.”  Keynote speakers include Brigadier General Simon Doran and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sergeant Major Carlos Ruiz.  Keynote speakers will cover topics ranging from “Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) in the Americas: Sea Control in Support of Naval Maneuver” to “Enlisted Leader Development in Disaggregated Operations.”  The importance of gathering senior leaders together in a common forum to discuss shared interests and security concerns cannot be overstated.  The Marine Corps looks forward to hosting this iteration of MLAC and hosting our partners in the National Capital Region.

HISTORY

In 1999, a senior leadership meeting laid the groundwork for the Marine Corps League of the Americas Conference, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering inter-American military cooperation. The first conference took place in 2001, marking the start of a biennial or triennial tradition that brings together naval infantry forces from across the Americas.

Over the years, the conference has played a significant role in enhancing professional exchanges, refining training programs and augmenting naval infantry operations throughout the Southern Command area of responsibility. The conference has been co-hosted by the Marine Corps commandant and a partner nation, demonstrating the Marine Corps' commitment to building strong relationships with regional partners.

In 2025, the Marine Corps will host the conference for the first time in 20 years. The conference, held in the U.S., coincided with the Navy and Marine Corps' 250th anniversary, making it a significant occasion. The conference marked a strategic opportunity for the Marine Corps to demonstrate its capabilities and reinforce its dedication to regional security.

The conference has undergone significant evolution since its inception, adapting to the changing security landscape and emerging challenges in the region. Throughout its history, the conference has provided a platform for naval infantry forces to share best practices, discuss common challenges and work together to address regional security concerns.

As the Marine Corps navigates the complexities of the 21st century, the conference remains an essential component of its regional engagement strategy. The conference serves as a testament to the Marine Corps' enduring commitment to inter-American cooperation, professional development and regional security.

Keynote PRESENTATION 1:

Speaker: Brigadier General Simon M. Doran
Topic:     “How We Fight”

Keynote PRESENTATION 2:

Speaker:  Sergeant Major Carlos A. Ruiz
Topic:      “Enlisted Leader Development in Disaggregated Operations.” 

Topics

1.  “How We Fight,” by Brigadier General Doran (MCWL).

2.  “Equipping the Force,” by Colonel Dono (Systems Command).

3.  “How TECOM is Supporting Maneuver Warfare in the Americas: Project Tripoli,” by Colonel Whited, Mr. Brown, and Mr. Fraley (TECOM).

4.  “Leadership Development in Disaggregated Operations,” by Sergeant Major Ruiz.

5.  “Talent Management,” by Colonel Scott (M&RA/MP) and Colonel Garcia (M&RA/MM).

6.  “Operational / Strategic Leader Development,” by Colonel Reid (MCU).

7.  “Changing Character of War,” by Colonel McCarthy (TBS).

PRESS RELEASE: Marine Leaders of the Americas Conference 2025: Strengthening Regional Maritime Security and Cooperation
On DVIDS:  https://www.dvidshub.net/news/544526/marine-leaders-americas-conference-2025-strengthening-regional-maritime-security-and-cooperation