In this November 2009 interview, MAJ Michael Smith discusses his training focus on organization and the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) in preparing his staff for mobilization. He noted challenges in preparing Aviation officers to perform non-Aviation staff jobs, such as the S2 and S4. MAJ Smith relates how the capstone Aviation Training Exercise (ATX) aided in building staff cohesion, improving understanding of the various staff roles, and helping the staff to understand the commander's intent in executing operations. MAJ Smith describes how he, the unit command section, and the other staff Aviators established a personal battle rhythm to maintain a predictable schedule -- which was necessary to accommodate flying time alongside performance of staff duties. Then, MAJ Smith shares his experiences (as the temporary commander while his battalion commander was absent on leave) in handling the aftermath of an aircraft crash that resulted in several injuries and one death. Smith highlights the differences between training scenarios he rehearsed at the ATX, and the reality in Iraq. MAJ Smith also explains how he experienced issues with ensuring the next of kin received official notification before releasing information to the unit rear detachment and peacetime chain of command back in Ohio.

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