FORT BRAGG, N.C. - Understanding culture and language proficiency is the key to solving problems across the spectrum of Special Operations.
In response to the growing emphasis on cultural and language proficiency, the 4th Military Information Support Group (Airborne) conducted its first Cross-Cultural Communication Competition (C4) from Nov. 4-8, 2012.
The C4 evaluated over 26 Regional Military Information Support Teams on their ability to demonstrate cultural competencies in multiple foreign environments.
In partnership with the USASOC Command Language Program, Special Operations Center for Enhanced Performance, Reservoir International and the United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, the C4 consisted of 24 scenarios based on real-world cultures and societies throughout Africa, Southwest Asia and Europe.
The cultural constructs were staged in small villages, markets, camps, cities and farms all in foreign languages and were structured to emphasize the unique behaviors, attitudes, beliefs and values of resident cultural groups.
Each RMT was evaluated on their ability to adapt to different cultural incidents and demonstrate cultural competencies which stressed cultural maturity, intellectual empathy, cognitive flexibility, cultural comprehension, and interpersonal skills.
Staff Sgt. Nathan Reible and Captain John Leisenberg of Company B, 8th Military Information Support Battalion, 4th Military Information Support Group (Airborne) were declared the winners of the intellectually grueling four day event.