Students should read each case study and then answer the applicable question in two separate essays.
Each response should be written as clearly and concisely as possible in no more than 1,000 words total
(divided between the two responses). How a student chooses to divide the word count between the two
essays is entirely at their discretion. Responses must be submitted as a single Microsoft Word document,
12 pitch, Times New Roman Font, and double spaced
Question 1: Read the case study “Closing American Detainee Facilities at Guantanamo Bay (2009). After reading the case, respond to the following question:
Background: This case study centers on the challenges facing the Obama Administration’s
efforts to close detention facilities at Guantanamo Bay (GITMO). As a presidential candidate, Obama argued about the importance of closing GITMO and, once elected, appeared to
have broad support both within his broader administration and across the American
populace. However, he was ultimately unable to close the facility which still remains open at the time of this writing (Spring 2023).
Identify and discuss the key factors influencing President Obama’s inability to close
Guantanamo Bay (GITMO) despite signing an Executive Order on his first day in office
directing the detention facility be closed. In your response be sure to clearly explain which
factors, from your perspective, were most influential on this policy decision, and why.
Question 2: Read the case study “The Least Worst Place.” After reading the case, respond to
the following question:
Background: This case study centers on the creation of Joint Task Force 160 and its Deputy
Commander in early 2002. More specifically, the case covers the decision to create the Joint Task Force, its impact upon Naval Base, Guantanamo Bay, and more broadly its impact
on the United States and the world. The case also explores the potential impact that a few
U.S. Navy O-6’s could have on the national security of the United States. The case also
highlights that over time, organizations evolve due to their own internal experiences or in
response to external forces.
Assume the role of CAPT Boone in his position as the Commanding Officer of U.S. Naval Base Guantanamo Bay and Deputy Commander, JTF-160 to answer the following questions.
1. Identify what you believe to be the highest priority issue (critical gap) that needs to be addressed in your dual-hatted role as the CO of Guantanamo Bay and Deputy Commander of
JTF-160. Why do you believe this to be your highest priority issue and what is the desired outcome you want to achieve?
2. Based on your highest priority issue, identify any sources of friction and resistance you
anticipate when executing an implementation plan to address this critical gap? Discuss how you will address these sources of friction and resistance.
3. Identify any risks associated with executing your implementation plan and discuss how
you would address these risks.
No use of AI. I understand that my essay will be reviewed by plagiarism software and
retained in a database.
