05/22/2026
Snapshots from our The Olmsted Foundation Field Study in Morocco.
C/SFC Brendan Macking, who led these engagements, reflected on Phase 2 as an immersion into the intersections of peace, diplomacy, culture, and conflict that have shaped Northern Morocco:
“Through military engagements, historical exploration, and cultural exchange, the team deepened its understanding of Morocco’s strategic importance at the Strait of Gibraltar, its centuries-long relationship with the United States, and the enduring influence of both cooperation and war throughout the region.
The phase began at Cap Spartel overlooking the meeting point of the Atlantic and Mediterranean, before continuing into Tangier where the team met with leadership at the American Legation Museum. There, C/SFC Macking sat at the historic desk tied to the 1904 Perdicaris Incident and symbolically reissued the order demanding Perdicaris be returned “alive or Raisuli dead,” reflecting on one of America’s earliest foreign policy crises in Morocco.
The team later conducted cultural engagement over traditional Moroccan dinners with American educators and former Peace Corps personnel living in Tangier, gaining further insight into the American presence and cultural exchange within Morocco.
The expedition continued through the mountains and Atlantic coastline near Achakar Beach before arriving at Meknes Military Academy, where the delegation was welcomed by the Commanding General, judged cadet final projects, toured academy facilities, and attended a formal dinner alongside senior officers of the Royal Moroccan Military. Members later participated in an Aïssawa music gathering rooted in the Sufi brotherhood.
In Fez, the team explored the ancient medina, Jewish Quarter, Al-Qarawiyyin University, Ibn Khaldun’s historic home, and the centuries-old leather trade at Chouara Tannery while discussing modernization with local artisans during hands-on pottery engagements.
Phase 2 concluded with the delegation presenting gifts and expressing gratitude to their guide, Hakim, before departing toward the Sahara and Merzouga Desert for the beginning of Phase 3.”