Marine Pulse

A weekly podcast featuring analysis of issues critical to Marines with experts currently serving in and retired from the U.S. Marine Corps.

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What Intelligence Owes Marines in the Fight

Marine Pulse
Mike Groen and Gary Sampson
November 5, 2026

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Episode Notes:

Retired Marine Lieutenant General Mike Groen joins Gary to discuss intelligence support for Marines. He recalls how analysis of an unfinished highway persuaded General Jim Mattis to alter the 1st Marine Division’s maneuver plan during the 2003 Iraq invasion. Groen traces the trust behind that decision through his work preparing 3d Radio Battalion for missions in the Philippines and advancing Vince Stewart’s vision for Marine intelligence. Drawing on his leadership of the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center, he discusses guiding new technology with human judgment and values. He concludes with advice on building professional relationships and pursuing meaningful work beyond the expected career path.

Show Notes:

Groen, M. S. & Marine Corps University. History Division. (2006) With the 1st Marine Division in Iraq, 2003 : no greater friend, no worse enemy. Quantico, Va: History Division, Marine Corps University. [online]. Available from: https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/With%20the%201stMarDiv%20in%20Iraq%2C%202003.pdf.

Groen, Michael S. "The Tactical Fusion Center." Marine Corps Gazette 89, no. 4 (04, 2005): 59-63. https://www.proquest.com/trade-journals/tactical-fusion-center/docview/221418721/se-2.

Image: Ashley Cheesman via DVIDS