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MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. — The International Officer School prepares international students for success in Air University programs including Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College, and Air War College. The school plays a vital role in building global partnerships by preparing and supporting international military students and their families through education, engagement and outreach.
Each year, IOS welcomes hundreds of officers from around the world to study alongside United States service members, fostering a deeper understanding of shared values and military cooperation. For this academic year, the school will host 245 international military students representing 78 partner nations across six geographic combatant commands.
This year holds special significance as it marks 100 years of international officer presence in U.S. Professional Military Education, a tradition that predates both the U.S. Air Force and Air University.
“This centennial marks a profound milestone,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Pedro E. Matos, IOS commandant. “The presence of international officers over the past 100 years has not only enriched our classrooms but also deepened the bonds of cooperation and mutual respect across nations. Long before the establishment of the U.S. Air Force and Air University, this tradition of partnership laid the groundwork for a globally minded approach to leadership development.”
The IOS in-residence preparatory courses typically last five to seven weeks and equips students with the tools necessary to succeed in U.S. PME programs. The courses introduce them to institutions, political systems and military culture. This creates the foundation for success at the SOS, ACSC and AWC.
“For the academic portion, I can’t imagine starting without this preparation,” said French Air and Space Force Lt. Col. Nicolas Hoellinger, 3rd Fighter Wing AWC student. “The month and a half we spend learning about writing, reading and speaking in english is essential. Without it, it would have been incredibly difficult to succeed academically.”
Beyond academics, IOS manages several key programs to enhance the student experience. The school coordinates field study trips that promote mutual respect and cultural understanding while highlighting the U.S. commitment to human rights and democratic values. Recent field study trips have included visits to Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and New York.
“These immersive experiences go far beyond sightseeing,” said Matos. “They serve as living classrooms where leadership, diplomacy and cultural exchange intersect. By walking through the halls of history, engaging with local communities and witnessing democratic institutions in action, international officers gain a deeper appreciation for the principles that guide U.S. military and civic life.”
The IOS also operates the International Family Support Organization, which helps more than 300 family members adjust to life in the United States. The organization facilitates connections between families, promotes cultural appreciation and organizes activities for spouses and children throughout the academic year.
“International officer students don’t just study here; they live here with their families,” said Awilda Matos, International Family Support Organization volunteer. “When we help their families feel at home, we strengthen the bonds that endure long after they return to their countries. That’s why we have a dedicated team of volunteers who create meaningful opportunities for spouses, from english language classes to cultural engagements with our local community.”
The relationships built through IOS serve as a cornerstone for combined readiness and integrated warfighting, with alumni rising to the highest echelons of military leadership as air chiefs, chiefs of defense and even heads of state.
As IOS enters its next century, its vision, “Build Global Partnerships, One International Leader at a Time,” remains the guiding principle behind every course, event and relationship formed at Maxwell.
| Date Taken: | 11.12.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.12.2025 12:04 |
| Story ID: | 550948 |
| Location: | ALABAMA, US |
| Web Views: | 21 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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